Total Hip Replacement

The hip joint is a large ball and socket joint. The cup side of the joint is known as the acetabulum and the ball side as the head of femur.

Total hip replacement consists of acetabulum cup, ball head and femoral stem. They are usually made of metal alloy, polyethylene or ceramic. If one or both of your hip joints are damaged, your doctor may recommend you to have this operation.

The expected outcome of this operation is to replace a worn hip joint. It can help to relieve pain and improve the function of the hip.

Procedures


  • The operation is performed under general / spinal anaesthesia
  • Excise damaged joint
  • Insert and fix up the artificial joint

Possible Complications


  • Wound Infection
  • Bleeding, haematoma, healing problem, scarring
  • Joint dislocation / subluxation
  • Wear and loosening

Post-operative Instructions

Wound Care
Follow medical professionals' instructions to prevent dislocation.
You will have a waterproof dressing over the hip wound, this normally stays on for 14 days.
We recommend that you lie on your back for at least the first week, with a pillow between the knees to limit the amount of rolling over you do.
Activities
Deep breathing exercise to prevent lung complication.
Exercises of toes and ankles of both lower limbs to prevent venous thrombosis.
Physiotherapist may refer as your doctor’s advice for ambulatory training.
Please avoid excessive hip flexion or crossing of legs to prevent dislocation.
Please avoid extreme movements or sports where there’s a risk of falling.
Diet
A normal diet may be resumed as instructed after recovery from general anaesthesia.
 Please comply with medication regime as prescribed by your doctor. Generally, you should be able to stop use of crutches within four to six weeks post-operatively and feel better after 3 months.