What is Primary Hip Replacement?

Primary hip replacement, also known as primary total hip arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure performed to replace a damaged or diseased hip joint with an artificial implant. This procedure is commonly undertaken to relieve pain and restore function in patients suffering from severe hip joint damage, typically due to arthritis or injury. The primary hip replacement aims to improve the quality of life by enabling greater mobility and reducing discomfort.

How is Primary Hip Replacement Done?

1. Preoperative Assessment: A comprehensive evaluation, including medical history, physical examination, and imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI, is conducted to plan the surgery.
2. Anaesthesia: The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia or regional anaesthesia (spinal or epidural), ensuring the patient is pain-free during the surgery.
3. Incision: An incision is made over the hip to access the damaged joint.
4. Removal of Damaged Joint: The surgeon removes the damaged bone and cartilage from the hip joint.
5. Implantation of Prosthesis: The hip joint is replaced with a prosthesis consisting of a socket component (acetabular) and a ball component (femoral). The socket is implanted into the pelvic bone, and the ball is attached to the top of the thigh bone (femur).
6. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or staples, and a sterile dressing is applied.

Why is Primary Hip Replacement Done?

Primary hip replacement is performed to relieve chronic hip pain and improve joint function, particularly when conservative treatments such as medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications have not provided sufficient relief. Common reasons for undergoing primary hip replacement include:

• Osteoarthritis: Severe degeneration of the hip joint due to wear and tear.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: Chronic inflammation causing joint damage.
• Avascular Necrosis: Loss of blood supply to the hip joint leading to bone death.
• Hip Fractures: Severe fractures that compromise hip function.
• Developmental Dysplasia: Abnormal development of the hip joint.

Who Might Need Primary Hip Replacement?

Primary hip replacement is recommended for individuals who experience:

• Severe hip pain that interferes with daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, and getting in and out of chairs.
• Persistent pain that continues despite the use of pain medications and physical therapy.
• Limited range of motion in the hip joint.
• Hip joint stiffness that impairs the ability to move the leg.
• Reduced quality of life due to hip joint problems.

Conditions Treated with Primary Hip Replacement

• Severe Osteoarthritis: Hip replacement is often the best option for those with advanced osteoarthritis.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: When inflammation leads to significant joint damage.
• Traumatic Hip Injuries: Fractures and injuries that compromise hip joint function.
• Avascular Necrosis: To replace the joint when blood supply loss leads to bone death.
• Congenital Hip Disorders: Such as hip dysplasia that causes hip joint problems in adulthood.

Recovery Times

Recovery time after primary hip replacement varies by individual but generally follows this timeline:

• Hospital Stay: Typically, patients stay in the hospital for 2-5 days post-surgery.
• Initial Recovery: Walking with the aid of crutches or a walker is encouraged within a day or two after surgery.
• Physical Therapy: A structured rehabilitation programme begins soon after surgery to regain strength and mobility.
• Full Recovery: Most patients resume normal activities within 3 to 6 months, although some may take up to a year for complete recovery.

Tips for a Good Recovery

1. Follow Postoperative Instructions: Adhere to your surgeon’s guidelines on wound care, activity restrictions, and medication.
2. Physical Therapy: Engage in prescribed physical therapy exercises to enhance strength and mobility.
3. Home Modifications: Make necessary adjustments at home, such as installing grab bars and using a raised toilet seat.
4. Healthy Diet: Maintain a balanced diet to support healing and overall health.
5. Avoid High-Impact Activities: Steer clear of activities that may strain the new hip joint, such as running and jumping.
6. Attend Follow-Up Appointments: Regular check-ups with your surgeon to monitor progress and address any concerns.

Conclusion

Primary hip replacement surgery is a highly effective solution for individuals suffering from severe hip joint damage. By replacing the damaged joint with a prosthesis, this procedure can significantly reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life. If you are experiencing debilitating hip pain and conservative treatments have not provided relief, primary hip replacement surgery with Professor Ali Ghoz may be the right option for you. Consult with Professor Ghoz to discuss your condition and develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs.