Hip Replacement Treatment in Bhubaneswar

Hip Replacement in Bhubaneswar

Hip replacement treatment is a surgical measure that aims to relieve pain and improve mobility in people suffering from hip joint problems. 
In this blog, we will discuss the diagnostic tests, risks associated with hip replacement surgery, and the recovery process and address frequently asked questions about this treatment option, particularly focusing on hip replacement treatment in Bhubaneswar. CARE Hospitals is the 1st hospital to introduce Sports Injury & rehabilitation department in Odisha and is equipped with best sports medicine doctors in Bhubaneswar. 

What is a Hip Replacement?

A total hip replacement, also known as total hip arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that includes removing the damaged or diseased areas of the hip joint and replacing them with artificial implants made of metal, plastic, or ceramic materials. The doctors recommend this procedure for people with severe hip pain and reduced mobility caused by various conditions, including osteoarthritis, hip fractures, or avascular necrosis. Hip replacement surgery intends to alleviate pain or discomfort, restore joint function, and improve the overall quality of life by replacing the damaged joint.

Reasons for Hip Replacement

There are several reasons why a person may require hip replacement surgery, such as: 

• Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint ailment that causes the cartilage in the hip joint to wear, leading to pain, stiffness, and limited movement. 
• Rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic inflammatory condition, can damage the hip joints and require a hip replacement. 
• Congenital hip conditions such as developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) may necessitate hip surgery to correct joint abnormalities.
• Other conditions such as hip fractures, bone tumours, and avascular necrosis (a condition in which the blood supply to the hip joint is obstructed)

Types of Hip Replacement

The types of hip replacement surgeries depend on the extent of the damage and the patient's specific needs. 

• Total hip replacement: Here, the surgeon will replace the hip joint's ball and socket with artificial implants. 
• Partial hip replacement: This surgery involves replacing only the hip joint ball. 
• Hip resurfacing: It is reshaping the damaged bone and capping it with a metal implant. 
• Revision hip replacement procedure: This surgical method involves replacing old implants with new components. 
• Bilateral hip replacement: This surgical procedure involves replacing both hip joints during a single surgical procedure. 

When is Hip Replacement Needed or Recommended?

Doctors recommend hip replacement surgery when non-surgical treatment modalities, such as medications, physiotherapy, and lifestyle modifications, fail to provide relief from hip pain and improve mobility. Factors such as the patient's pain level, their ability to perform daily activities, and the impact of the hip condition on their overall quality of life are also considered. If conservative approaches are ineffective in managing the manifestations and the hip joint damage is significant, hip replacement surgery may be the most suitable treatment option.

Diagnostic Tests

Before undergoing hip replacement surgery, several diagnostic tests may be conducted to assess the patient's hip joint condition, including: 

• X-rays to visualise the bones and joints
• MRI scans help obtain detailed images of the hip joint and surrounding structures
• Blood tests to assess the patient's overall health and identify any underlying medical conditions 
• A bone density scan (DEXA Scan) to measure bone density and assess the possibility of osteoporosis or bone fractures, which may affect the success of hip replacement surgery.

Hip Replacement Procedure: Before, During, and After

Before the Procedure

Before hip replacement surgery, the patient will go through several preparatory steps. These may include a pre-operative assessment to analyse the patient's overall health and fitness for surgery. The surgeon may order various diagnostic tests, such as physical assessment, X-rays, MRI scans, or blood tests, to assess the extent of the hip joint damage and identify potential complications. Before the surgery, the surgeon will instruct the patient to stop certain drugs, such as blood thinners. 

During the Procedure

• During the hip replacement procedure, the surgeon induces general anaesthesia to ensure the patient is asleep and pain-free throughout the surgery. 
• The surgeon will make an incision over the hip area, exposing the joint to access the damaged area. 
• Then they will carefully replace the damaged bone and cartilage, including the hip socket, ball, and stem, with artificial implants. 
•  Lastly, the surgeon will secure the artificial implant in place using surgical cement or press-fit techniques. 

After the Procedure

After the hip replacement surgery, the medical staff will shift and monitor the patient in a recovery room for any signs of complications. The team will provide instructions on weight-bearing restrictions, wound care, and post-operative precautions. 

Risks of Hip Replacement Surgery

While hip replacement surgery is generally considered safe, patients must be aware of possible risks. These risks may include infection, blood clots, injury to blood vessels or nerves, dislocation of the artificial joint, and implant failure. Patients must follow post-operative instructions carefully, attend follow-up appointments, and report any unusual signs and symptoms or concerns to their doctor.

Recovery after Hip Replacement

The recovery process following hip replacement surgery can vary from person to person. The initial weeks will focus on pain management, wound healing, and gradually increasing mobility. Physical therapy will play a crucial role in strengthening the hip joint and improving range of motion. The patient may require assistive devices such as crutches or a walker to aid in walking during the early stages of recovery. Over time, as the hip heals and the muscles regain strength, the patient will gradually increase their activity level and be able to resume daily activities. 

Why choose CARE Hospitals for a hip replacement procedure?

CARE Hospitals is equipped with cutting-edge facilities backed by a team of best orthopaedic doctors in Bhubaneswar. The hospital prioritises personalised care, ensuring all patient needs are addressed while delivering optimal clinical outcomes. The hospital's track record speaks volumes, having successfully helped numerous patients regain mobility and enhance their quality of life through hip replacement surgeries.

FAQ's

1. Is there a lot of pain after Hip Replacement?

The pain level experienced after hip replacement surgery varies from person to person. While it is normal to experience some discomfort during recovery, the pain should gradually subside over time. 

2. What is the age limit for hip replacement?

There is no specific age limit for hip replacement surgery. The decision to undergo this procedure depends on the individual's overall health, pain level, and the impact of the hip joint condition on their quality of life. Younger patients may opt for hip resurfacing or partial hip replacement, while total hip replacement procedures are more common in older individuals.

3. Which hip replacement surgery is best?

The choice of hip replacement surgery depends on various factors, like the extent of joint damage, the patient's age, and the surgeon's recommendation. Total hip replacement is the most common procedure, but partial hip replacement and hip resurfacing may be suitable in some instances. The orthopaedic surgeon will assess each patient's condition and determine the most appropriate surgical option.

4. How long is bed rest after hip replacement?

The duration of bed rest following hip replacement surgery is typically short. Patients are encouraged to start walking with crutches or a walker as soon as possible, usually on the day of or the day after the surgery. Early mobilisation is beneficial for preventing complications such as blood clots and promoting faster recovery.

5. Can I climb stairs after hip replacement?

Most patients can climb stairs after hip replacement surgery, but initially, it may take some time and assistance. Physical therapy will solely focus on regaining strength and flexibility in the hip joint, gradually improving the patient's ability to climb stairs.

6. What cannot be done after a hip replacement?

While hip replacement surgery significantly improves mobility and quality of life, certain activities should be cautiously avoided or approached. Patients should avoid high-impact activities such as running, jumping, or heavy lifting, as they can place excessive stress on the hip joint. 

7. How long does it take to walk normally after hip replacement?

Though it varies for each person, most patients can walk with assistance, such as crutches or a walker, within a day or two after the surgery. Gradually, as the hip joint heals and the muscles strengthen, the patient can walk without assistance. Full recovery can take several weeks or months, depending on individual factors.

8. Can you walk normally after hip replacement?

Hip replacement surgery aims to enable individuals to walk normally and without pain. While it may take some time for the hip joint to heal fully and for the muscles to regain strength, most patients can resume walking without limitations or significant pain after the recovery period. 

9. What is not allowed after hip replacement?

After hip replacement surgery, you should avoid certain activities that can put excessive pressure on the hip joint or increase the risk of complications. These activities may include high-impact sports, running, jumping, heavy lifting, and extreme hip movements. 

10. Can hip pain be cured without surgery?

In some cases, hip pain can be managed without surgery using conservative treatments such as medications, physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, and assistive devices. However, if these measures fail to provide relief and the hip joint damage is severe, hip replacement surgery may be advised.