Hip replacement surgery is one of the most common orthopedic surgeries performed. It involves the replacement of the damaged hip bone (ball shaped upper end of the femur) with a metal or ceramic ball attached to a metal stem that is fixed into the femur and placing a new cup with a special liner in the pelvis. Traditionally, the surgery required the patient to stay in the hospital for one to several days. With advanced techniques, it is now possible to perform these surgeries on an outpatient basis where the patient is up and walking a few hours after surgery and goes home on the same day. Modern anesthesia techniques and rapid rehab protocols have allowed for transition to outpatient hip replacement surgery in medical optimized patients.
Procedure
Through an incision on the hip the head of the damaged femur is removed and the hip socket is cleaned. The stem and ball prosthetics are then fitted into the end of the femur and the cup is placed in the acetabulum without cement to achieve a biologic fixation. The hip is then rejoined and the surrounding tissues are repaired around the hip.
Postoperative Care and Instructions
After surgery, you will be transferred to the recovery area where you begin work with physical therapy to be able to safely get out of a chair and bed, and walk with assistance of a walker. Once your pain is well controlled and you can move safely, you will be able to discharge home.
On discharge you will be given instructions for:
- Incision and dressing care
- Physical therapy and exercise regimen to improve range of motion and strengthen muscles
- Adherence to prescribed medications
- Adherence to follow-up appointments to monitor your progress
