Hip Replacement

Total Hip Arthroplasty

Arthroplasty is an operation to replace a joint surface with an artificial joint (prosthesis). Hip replacement is a surgical procedure in which the hip joint is replaced by a prosthetic implant.

Total hip replacement can be performed as a total replacement or hemi (half) replacement. It is considered one of the most successful orthopaedic surgeries.

Goals of surgery are:

  • Pain relief
  • Improve joint function
  • Improve quality of life
Hip Replacement

Anatomy

The hip joint is a ball and socket joint. The femoral head (ball) fits into the acetabulum (socket). This allows smooth movement of the hip.

Cartilage covers the surfaces and helps reduce friction. Damage to this cartilage leads to arthritis and pain.

Common Pathologies

Osteoarthritis: Degeneration of joint cartilage causing pain and stiffness.

Rheumatoid Arthritis: Autoimmune disease leading to joint inflammation.

Avascular Necrosis: Loss of blood supply causing bone death.

Post-traumatic Arthritis: Arthritis following injury.

Childhood Diseases: Developmental abnormalities affecting hip joint.

Total Hip Arthroplasty / Total Hip Replacement

There are two types of hip replacement:

  • Cemented: Uses bone cement for fixation.
  • Uncemented: Implant is fixed without cement.

Let’s see Total Hip Replacement Technique

The damaged cartilage and bone are removed and replaced with artificial components. The prosthesis includes a stem, ball, and socket.

Types of Hip Replacement Surgeries

  1. Cemented THR: Implant fixed using cement.
  2. Uncemented THR: Implant allows bone growth into it.
  3. Hybrid Replacement: Combination of both methods.

Complications of Surgery

  • Infection
  • Blood clots
  • Dislocation
  • Nerve injury
  • Implant loosening

Other Complications

  • Leg length discrepancy
  • Loosening and implant wear

Cases