Hip replacement is the surgical replacement of a damaged hip joint with an artificial joint made of plastic and metal parts. When all other medical methods have failed to offer sufficient pain relief, this procedure is used. This operation will assist in the relief of pain in the hip joint. This surgery also aids in the facilitation of day-to-day operations.
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What Happens When You Have a Hip Replacement?
Hip replacement surgery may be done the old way or using a minimally invasive method. The size of the incision is the biggest difference between these two procedures. In Young Bones Clinic, Dr Ratnav Ratan who is one of the best orthopedic doctors in Gurgaon uses the following methods-
Traditional Technique:
The patient is given general anesthesia to calm the muscles during a typical hip replacement operation. This would keep you from feeling any discomfort or being conscious of the operation during the surgery. To show the hip joint, the doctor will make a cut along the side of the hip and pass the muscles attached to the top of the thighbone. A saw is used to sever the thighbone and remove the ball part of the joint. Then, either with cement or a special substance that allows the remaining bone to adhere to the new joint, an artificial joint is applied to the thighbone.
The orthopedic surgeon then removes the weakened cartilage to keep the surface of the hip bone ready. The replacement socket is then connected to the hip bone. After that, the new ball portion of the thigh bone is inserted into the hip socket. The muscles are then reattached and the incision is closed.
Minimally Invasive Technique:
The preferred technique is currently used in the majority of hip replacement operations. Some physicians have recently begun to use a minimally invasive procedure. Doctors allow one or two 2- to 5-inch long cuts in the minimally invasive technique.
Via these minor wounds, a procedure similar to traditional hip replacement surgery is performed. The small cuts are thought to minimize blood loss, discomfort after surgery, hospital stays, wound appearance, and healing time.
What Do I Do to get Ready for Hip Replacement Surgery?
If you or someone you know is considering hip replacement surgery in Gurgaon, India, keep the following points in mind until the procedure:
- Consult your physician- You must have a thorough discussion with your doctor or surgeon. Inquire about the protocol and address any questions or concerns you might have. You would be more prepared for the result if you understand the protocol.
- Inquire About Exercises- Your doctor may or may not ask you to do any strengthening exercises, depending on your overall health.
- Stop Smoking- If you smoke, stopping or at least cutting back a few weeks before surgery will help you heal much more quickly.
- Get Rid of The Extra Pounds- Being overweight can slow down your recovery and increase your risk of complications during and after surgery. Speak with your doctor about losing weight.
- Make a few adjustments at home- Since your mobility might be limited at first, you might need to make some adjustments at home. You can do the following:
- Arrange for some domestic help, particularly for the first few weeks, to keep things like the TV remote, mobile charger, medications, tissue papers, and so on within easy reach.
- You’d need assistance going to the bathroom, changing clothes, and so on.
- A elevated toilet seat would be beneficial; you may want to install safety bars and handles in the bathroom; and you’d like a shower chair while bathing.
- Purchase walking aids such as a walker, crutches, or a walking stick.
Advantages
Total hip replacement has a number of advantages which are listed below-
A High Rate of Success
Overall, complete hip replacement is regarded as one of the most effective procedures available in medicine. It can be an inexpensive, safe, and long-lasting way to treat many of the problems associated with severe hip arthritis in the right patient.
Getting Rid of your Discomfort
This is the procedure’s most significant advantage and the primary justification for surgery. A hip replacement will significantly reduce discomfort, with almost all patients experiencing complete or near-complete relief from arthritic hip pain after the procedure.
Mobility and Hip Function Improvement
Following pain relief, improved mobility is the next big advantage. After a hip replacement, you should be able to walk freely again. Other common problems associated with hip arthritis, such as going up the stairs, putting on socks, getting out of a chair, and so on, can be greatly aided by improved hip function.
Long-Lasting Effect
A hip replacement is a long-term solution to the complications caused by extreme hip arthritis. According to current research, 80-85 percent of hip replacements are still functional 20 years after they were implanted.