What happens during a hip replacement operation?
Hip replacement surgery is a highly effective orthopaedic procedure that can relieve pain, restore mobility and greatly improve quality of life.
If you’re preparing for surgery or simply want to understand the process better, consultant hip and knee surgeon Mr Benjamin Pal Kapur outlines what happens during a typical hip replacement operation in this article.
What is a hip replacement?
A hip replacement involves removing the worn-out or damaged parts of the hip joint and replacing them with artificial components (prosthesis). These implants are designed to replicate the natural movement of the hip and are made from materials like metal, plastic, or ceramic. The operation is typically carried out to relieve pain caused by arthritis or injury.
Before the operation
Before surgery begins, you’ll meet with the anaesthetist to discuss your options. Most patients will have either a spinal anaesthetic, which numbs the lower half of the body and allows you to remain awake or lightly sedated, or a general anaesthetic, which puts you to sleep for the duration of the operation. The choice depends on your health, preferences, and surgical plan.
Positioning and preparation
In the operating theatre, you’ll be carefully positioned, usually on your side or back depending on the surgical approach. The skin around the hip is cleaned thoroughly with antiseptic solution and covered with sterile drapes to reduce the risk of infection.
What happens during hip replacement surgery?
The procedure typically involves the following key steps:
1. Making the incision
The surgeon makes a precise incision over the hip, usually at the side or front of the joint. The length and exact location of the incision depend on the surgical technique used (posterior, lateral, or anterior approach).
2. Accessing the hip joint
The surgeon carefully moves muscles and soft tissue aside to reach the hip joint. In some techniques, certain muscles may be detached and later repaired. Other techniques are muscle-sparing.
3. Removing the damaged joint surfaces
The head of the femur (thighbone) is removed, and the hip socket (acetabulum) is cleaned and shaped to accommodate the implant. This removes any damaged cartilage or bone caused by arthritis or previous injury.
4. Inserting the new components
A new cup is fixed into the socket, often lined with plastic or ceramic to allow smooth movement. A stem is placed into the femur and topped with a ball that fits securely into the new socket, restoring joint function.
5. Closing the incision
Once the new hip is in place and tested for stability and range of movement, the incision is closed using dissolvable stitches or staples, and a sterile dressing is applied.
After the operation
You’ll be taken to a recovery area where your vital signs will be monitored as the anaesthetic wears off. Most patients are encouraged to begin moving, often with the help of a physiotherapist, on the same day as surgery. Hospital stays typically range from one to two nights, depending on your recovery and overall health.
Understanding each stage of a hip replacement operation can help ease concerns and support a positive recovery. Consult with Mr Kapur via his Top Doctors profile if you’re considering a hip replacement.