Total Hip Replacement

A total hip replacement is performed for degeneration (wear and tear) of the hip joint or for hip fractures in patients over 50-60 years old. The indication for the operation is therefore for pain and/or loss of function or for fractures.

During a hip replacement the old femoral head (ball of hip) is removed and a new socket (acetabulum) and femoral head with stem is inserted. Nowadays the majority of hip replacements are inserted without cement (cementless prosthesis) but cement is still used for fixation in patients with frail bone.

The surgery is performed under spinal anesthesia and sedation. Patients start to ambulate on the same or following day with crutches or a walking frame for support. They use these walking aids for 4-6 weeks. Patients are discharged after 3-4 days.

During the first 6-8 weeks post-operative patients may not sit on very low chairs or sit cross legged. Showering is easier than bathing. Driving is not permitted for 4-6 weeks.

After 3 months patients can start low impact sport such as bowls, doubles tennis, cycling, walking and golf.

The average life expectancy of the prosthesis is 20 years.