Hip replacement surgery involves removing damaged and diseased parts of the bone and replacing with artificial implants. These artificial implants are known as prosthesis. There are 2 ways in which the implant is fixed to the bone:

€Cemented implant- used in older patients, in this the implant is bonded to the bone with the help of special cement.

€Uncemented implant- used in younger patients, the implant is left uncemented, so that over a period of time, natural bone material can grow through the implant and fix it to the bone more naturally.

Who needs Hip replacement surgeries?

Excruciating pain, marked decrease in the movement and function of the hip joint, which reduces the mobility of a patient, are reason why people look for hip replacement options. Common afflictions of hip joints are:

€Arthritis and all its forms like Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid and post injury
€Childhood diseases of bones and joints
€Damage to the blood supply in fracture or dislocation, known as avascular necrosis

What is the procedure like?

Hip replacement is carried out using a minimally invasive technique, which means a smaller incision (approx. 5 inches) and a computer navigation system, which ensures that the implant fits snuggly with the bone.

A computer receives and analyzes data from specially designed surgical instruments and probes (including arthroscope). An infrared tracker further monitors movement of the instruments and displays it on the computer screen. The computer depicts the collected data in the form of lines, angles, graphs and other such measurements as such needed for precise and exact positioning of the implant. Thus, computer navigation system combined with minimally invasive technique gives unparalleled control over the prosthetic, to the surgeon, and enables him to fix the implant precisely, a factor that is critical in determining the final outcome of the surgery.

What to expect post surgery?

Early ambulation, as early as next day, is anticipated if the implant is cemented. Conversely, if the implant remains uncemented, then the patient has to refrain from putting any weight on the implant for at least 6 weeks. This means that patient has to be on complete bed rest for the said period.

However, once the recovery period is over, patients observe a remarkable improvement in terms of reduced or no pain and better mobility and functioning of the joint.

Complications and post surgery precautions

Infection, Inequality in the length of leg, blood clots, loosening of implant and dislocation are some common complications that might arise post surgery. However, with an experienced and qualified surgeon, like hip replacement surgeon in Delhi, such complications almost never happen.

Weight management and strict adherence to the instructions from your physiotherapist are crucial factors that determine the success of your implant in the longer run. Each extra pound adds tremendous pressure to the new joint and you should thus be very careful and serious about weight control.

Your doctor and physiotherapist will give you instructions like

€Do not bend more than 90 degrees or take the knee higher than hip
€Do not sit cross legged, on low chairs/bed, or lean forward while sitting or as you sit or stand.

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