In this the entire operation of hip implantation is done with skinincision size of 10 cm or less. The hip joint is approached throughinter muscular intervals. The advantage is early recovery and lesspain. This approach is done in selected patients. Though the skinincision is small but inside operation is exactly the same as in anyother approach.
Hip Replacement Guide English
What are the risks involved in this surgery ?
- Anaesthesia related complications: they are same as in any other major surgery.
- Any major surgery related complications: they are blood clots in the leg ( deep vein thrombosis), or in the lung (pulmonary embolism) etc.
- Total hip surgery related complications: they are less common. Some of these cases may even require a revision surgery. Some of these complications are:
Dislocation of the artificial hip joint: Incidence of this complication is low and most of them normally require closed reduction and splinting. But if the artificial joint dislocates repeatedly, then a revision surgery may by required.
Infection : it is the most significant complication in the artificial hip joint.
However, the incidence of serious hip joint infection is very low ( less than 1%) . Most of these infections (superficial or deep) respond favorably to antibiotics, but if the discharge continues, then one may require removal of artificial hip joint for the control of infection. Minor leg length difference Stiffness - The major long- term problem is loosening of the hip joint prosthesis. The other long- term complication is wearing of the plastic cup.
- Fracture neck of femur in Surface Hip Replacements, especially in 1st 6 months after surgery.
Can I undergo replacement of both Hips ?
Yes, both the hips can be replaced at the same sitting if you are medically fit. It means one time anaesthesia, one time hospital stay, one time surgery and one time pain medication. It will be cost effective as well. Your doctor can advise you if you can undergo replacement of both hip at the same sitting.
What is the right age for Total Hip Replacement ?
As such age is no bar for this surgery, but preferably should be donein the older age group.
In younger age group, it should only be considered when patient isseverely crippled due to severe rheumatoid arthritis post traumaticarthritis of hip or avascular necrosis (AVN).
What are the benefits of Total Hip Replacement ?
Total hip replacement is the most successful joint replacementoperation. Relief of joint pain is often dramatic. The restorations ofactivities for sedentary adults are complete.
Most of you will regain your activities and will be able to walk wellwithout any limp, and will not require any walking aid. Improvementin stiffness especially in rheumatoid arthritis is significant.
Restoration of limb length of the leg is also an important advantageof this operation.
It must be remembered that artificial hip joint is a good hip thoughnot a normal hip. While swimming and brisk walking is consideredsafe, heavy labour jobs or repeated heavy impact should beavoided.
However after surface hip replacement most of the patients can domoderate impact activities such as golf and tennis in addition tositting on floor.