Hip pain affects your quality of living, mobility and well-being. The pain, whether caused by osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), injury or another condition, can make simple tasks such as walking or sitting difficult. Hip arthroplasty can be an excellent solution for those with chronic hip problems. We will examine what hip replacement surgery is, how to perform it, the recovery period, and whether it may be the best option for individuals suffering from hip joint pain.
What is Hip Arthroplasty?
A hip arthroplasty is a surgical operation that involves replacing a worn-out, damaged hip joint with an artificial implant. The hip joint has a ball/socket design, with the top part of the femur (the thighbone) forming a “ball”, which fits into the acetabulum. (A portion of the pelvic bone), which forms the “socket.” Due to arthritis and degenerative diseases or injury, the cartilage of the hip joint will wear out over time.
In a Hip Arthroplasty procedure, damaged hip joints are removed and replaced by artificial components that mimic natural hip movement. These artificial parts, which can be made of plastic, metal, or ceramic, are designed to offer long-lasting pain relief and restore the functionality of the hip joint.
Hip Arthroplasty Types
Hip arthroplasty in Bratislava is available in two basic types.
- A total hip replacement is called a THA: This surgery is the most common. In total hip surgery, both the acetabulum or the socket and the femoral heads (balls) are replaced by artificial components. This procedure will be recommended for patients with severe degeneration of the hip joint that other conservative treatments, such as medications and physical therapy, can’t manage.
- Hemiarthroplasty: This is a partial hip replacement that replaces the femoral (ball) head but leaves the acetabulum intact. This procedure is commonly used when the acetabulum or the femoral skull has been fractured.
Hip Arthroplasty for Various Reasons
Hip arthroplasty in Bratislava is usually recommended when other treatment options have not been effective. Several factors typically determine whether or not to undergo the surgery.
- Severe Hip Pain: The most common reason for undergoing hip arthroplasty is severe hip discomfort that restricts daily activities. The pain is either constant or increases with movement and can occur in the groin area, buttocks, and thigh.
- Limited movement: A severely damaged or injured hip joint may make it difficult for you to walk or do other basic movements. As mobility decreases, the quality of life may be affected.
The Procedure
Hip arthroplasty may be performed under general or local anaesthesia. In this case, the patient is asleep. In some cases, spinal anaesthesia is used to numb part of the lower half.
The surgeon starts by making an opening on the side, or in front, of the hip joint. The damaged femoral stem is removed. The acetabulum is then cleaned and ready for the new prosthetic. The new prosthetic socket is secured into the pelvic osseous bone. Next, the femoral (which holds the ball) stem is inserted through the femur. The prosthetic disc is then attached to the femoral stem and tested for proper alignment.
The incision can then be closed. The patient is then taken to the recuperation room. Depending on the complexity of your case, it can take several hours to finish the procedure.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery after hip arthroplasty includes rest, physiotherapy, and gradual weight-bearing. Recovery varies depending on the individual, but generally, there are three stages.
- Rehabilitation: Physical therapy is vital to recovery. Early mobilisation, which involves working with a Physical Therapist, is critical to the recovery of strength, flexibility, or balance. The therapist guides exercises to improve hip flexibility and teaches safe walking techniques.
- Return to regular activity: After a few days, patients can usually return to simple activities like walking. However, to give the hip joint time to recover, you may need to refrain from demanding activities like jogging or heavy lifting for a few weeks.
- Recovery: A full recovery may take 3-6 months to complete, depending on how the individual responds to rehabilitation.
Conclusion
For those with persistent hip issues brought on by arthritis, trauma, or degenerative disease, hip arthroplasty surgery, also referred to as hip replacement, is a very successful treatment option in Bratislava. The procedure is a highly effective way to relieve pain, improve joint function and enhance overall quality. If you’re experiencing severe hip discomfort that interferes with your daily routine, talk to an orthopaedist about whether hip arthroplasty may be the best option for you.