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Definition

A surgical operation to replace the hip joint.

Description

Time, coupled with arthritis or injury, can lead to degeneration of the hip joint, causing pain and restricted movement. Hip replacement surgery, also called total hip arthroplasty (THA), may be an option if your daily activities are limited by uncontrollable pain. Pain relief and increased mobility are the hallmarks of hip replacement surgery. For more than 25 years, hip replacement has taken people off of crutches and out of wheelchairs, restoring many to a near-normal, painless lifestyle. In the U.S., more than 100,000 hips are replaced each year. The operation is by far the most successful surgery for treating advanced arthritis of the hip. The most common reasons for surgery are: Osteoarthritis: Generally attributed to wear and tear with age, osteoarthritis is a gradual deterioration of the cartilage that cushions bones within a joint. As cartilage wears away, surrounding joint structures grow irregularly and can become inflamed and painful. Eventually bone can begin to rub against bone. Rheumatoid arthritis: Inflammation of the tissues surrounding joints leads to worn and swollen joints. This disease may eventually lead to deterioration of cartilage and destruction of joints. Osteonecrosis: An acute injury to your joint, such as a severe blow or fall, can disrupt the blood supply to the upper portion of the thighbone. This causes rapid deterioration of the joint. Eventually, the weight-bearing surface of the bone may collapse or fracture, leading to chronic pain. This condition can also occur with alcoholism and long-term use of cortisone-like drugs. Hip disorders or fractures: Hip replacement surgery is also used to repair disorders and fractures of the hip.

Questions

Is a hip replacement needed in this case? Why is it necessary? Do you recommend a cemented or cementless joint? What are advantages and disadvantages of each? How soon after surgery can I resume normal activities? Will I regain the full range of motion? Should I take antibiotics when I have dental or other minor surgery? What is the life expectancy of the artificial joint?