Preparing for surgery

• Before hip replacement surgery, the doctor will conduct a thorough physical examination and perform various tests to assess the condition.
• The patient should provide a comprehensive list of all medications and supplements.
• Several tests, such as blood and urine samples, an electrocardiogram (EKG), and chest X-rays, may be required to aid in the surgical planning process.
• While infections after hip replacement are not common, there is a risk of infection if bacteria enter the bloodstream. To minimize this risk, complete major dental procedures, including tooth extractions and periodontal work, must be completed before hip replacement surgery.
• Informed consent is obtained from the patient or their relatives before performing surgery.

During surgery

During hip replacement surgery, the patient will receive either a spinal block to numb the lower half of the body or a general anaesthetic to induce a sleep-like state.

In the operating room, the patient will receive an IV line for medications in the hand or arm, and a urinary catheter might also be inserted.

The surgical procedure can be completed within two hours and involves the following steps:

• An incision is made over the hip, passing through the layers of tissue.
• Diseased and damaged bone and cartilage are removed, leaving healthy bone intact.
• The replacement socket is implanted into the pelvic bone.
• A metal stem is inserted into the top of the thigh bone, which is then topped with a replacement ball.

After surgery

After the surgery, the patient will be transferred to a recovery area, where they will spend a few hours until the anesthesia wears off. During this time, medical staff will closely monitor various aspects such as blood pressure, pulse, alertness, pain or comfort level, and medication requirements.

The patient will be encouraged to breathe deeply or cough to prevent fluid buildup in the lungs. The length of the stay in the recovery area will depend on the individual needs.

Recovery after hip replacement surgery varies for each individual. Generally, it takes several months to recover fully, and physical therapy is essential during this period.

Within 24 hours after surgery, the surgeon or physical therapist will provide specific stretches and exercises. They will monitor the strength and flexibility of the leg and hip and the ability to stand and sit.

The exercises will focus on strengthening and stretching the muscles around the hip joint. Over time, the patient will gradually resume activities such as climbing stairs, bending, and walking, regaining the range of motion and strength. It may take six to twelve weeks before the patient can use the hip with no restrictions.

For a safe recovery at home, don’t hesitate to seek tips from the surgeon or physical therapist on moving around the living space with caution after the surgery.  

During the recovery, remember to:

1. Keep the surgical area clean and dry following the bathing instructions given by the doctor.
2. Take all medications as prescribed.
3. Attend all follow-up appointments with the surgeon.
4. Stick to physical therapy sessions and exercise at home as advised.
5. Resume a regular diet doctor instructs otherwise.
6. Elevate the leg and use ice to control swelling.

Although complications from hip replacement surgery are rare, they can still occur. The most common complications include:

• Infections
• Blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) or lungs (pulmonary embolism).
• Prosthesis-related problems, such as loosening or dislocation.
• Bone fractures around the prosthesis.
• Joint stiffness.

Promptly contact the surgeon if any of the following symptoms are experienced after a hip replacement:

• Severe pain
• Bleeding or any unusual drainage at the surgery site.
• Swelling
• Discoloration or redness around the surgery site.