Who is a suitable candidate for a hip replacement?

Hip replacements are often offered to patients who suffer from hip arthritis, and can offer life-changing results for those who choose to undergo the procedure. In his latest online article, renowned consultant orthopaedic Mr Syam Morapudi offers his expert insight into the procedure, including who it's suited for, the recovery time, and benefits and risks.

Under what circumstances is a hip replacement deemed necessary?

You are a suitable candidate for a hip replacement for a hip replacement if you have severe osteoarthritis confirmed by X-ray, and is affecting their daily life with significant pain.  If there is continuous pain despite taking simple painkillers, losing weight, regular exercises and physiotherapy you may be a candidate. If pain is affecting sleep, activities of daily living, walking even short distances, then the patient must consider getting an expert opinion from a hip surgeon.

Who should be considered a candidate for a hip replacement?

The patient should be in reasonably good health and fit for surgery. They must have the potential for rehabilitation and should have tried all the non-operative treatment options including painkillers, physiotherapy, weight loss, etc.

Could you outline the specifics of the hip replacement procedure?

The hip is a ball & socket joint. During the surgery, the socket and the ball are replaced with a prosthesis. The socket has a liner and will articulate with the ball.  

What is the typical recovery timeline for patients undergoing hip replacement?

If patients opt for the procedure, they will usually spend 1 or 2 nights in the hospital.  The majority of the recovery happens in the first 6-8 weeks. The patient will continue to notice improvements for up to 6-9 months.

Are there any associated risks with the procedure that patients should be aware of?

There are risks of infection, blood clots in the legs, dislocation, nerve injury, fracture and the risks of anaesthetic.  The risks are generally low, with about 1% of patients suffering from one of the possible risks following the procedure. 

Can you shed light on the overall success rate of hip replacements?

Hip replacement is one of the most successful operations anyone can have.  Most people report a complete relief of pain and they get back to normal function.  Most report a new lease of life with this surgery.  The hip replacements can last 15-20 years.

What type of anaesthetic is used?

Most commonly a spinal anaesthetic is used which involves an injection in the back.  It helps with a quicker recovery. This is good for pain relief.

If you would like to book a consultation with Mr Morapudi, you can do so today via his Top Doctors profile.