How Successful is Surgery for Hip Replacement?

Successful is Surgery for Hip Replacement

In recent years, total hip replacement procedures have continued to be performed at a significant rate in the US, indicating its ongoing success and economic viability as a medical intervention. The upward trend in hip replacement surgeries is driven by advancements in implant technology, greater surgical proficiency, and a growing population of eligible patients. Additionally, data suggests that hip replacements maintain a high success rate, typically ranging between 90% and 95% even a decade after the surgery.

Success percentages

According to the Indian Orthopaedic Association, total hip replacement surgeries have demonstrated significant success in alleviating hip pain for patients. Revision surgery is an option if needed. The integration of advanced technologies and materials has contributed to extending the lifespan of hip replacements in Indian patients.

Who replaces their hips?

In India, hip replacement surgery is frequently conducted on individuals within the age brackets of 45 to 64 years and those aged over 65. While advanced arthritis is a predominant cause for hip replacement, there are various other conditions that can lead to hip joint deterioration and necessitate surgery, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteonecrosis, femoroacetabular impingement, injury, fracture, and bone tumors.

Hip replacement is primarily indicated by pain, which is typically felt in the groin and buttocks due to arthritis. Pre-operative arthritis pain goes away instantly following a hip replacement, and post-operative pain usually goes away as soon as one-week following surgery. In addition to providing pain relief, hip replacement surgery can lead to significant improvements in mobility and quality of life. The hazards associated with hip replacements have significantly decreased thanks to advancements in technology and surgical methods.

The role of rehabilitation in success

Hip replacement surgery is typically a very successful procedure, but part of its success can be attributed to the postoperative rehabilitation period. You have to participate actively in your rehabilitation after hip replacement surgery if you want to see positive results. This is very important and should not be taken lightly!
Following hip replacement, rehabilitation starts practically right away. As soon as the surgery is finished, you will see a physical therapist. During the initial phases of rehabilitation, the focus is on preserving hip replacement range of motion and making sure you can walk safely.

Together, you and your physical therapist will create an action plan for your recovery that you can follow at home or a nearby gym. It’s critical that you carefully follow the physical therapist’s instructions during this recuperation and rehab phase and avoid overstretching your newly formed hip joint or the surrounding muscles and tissues as they heal and strengthen.
Hip dislocation is the most frequent issue that can occur following hip replacement surgery. If the hip is positioned in a certain way, the artificial ball and socket may come loose because they are typically smaller than the natural ones and the muscle structure has been weakened. The most hazardous postures involve bringing the knees up to the chest and rotating the leg inward or outward.

What outcomes are you hoping for with your new hip?

A successful hip replacement results in great pain relief, but it does not restore your hip to its natural state. While many patients report no pain, some may still experience sporadic aches and a sensation that the joint is not their “own.” Although most patients can resume their activities, it is not advised to resume high-impact exercises or running right after hip replacement surgery. Golf, walking, weightlifting, doubles tennis, dancing, cycling, and swimming are a few recommended sports. Even though they are possible, more hazardous sports like waterskiing, skiing, and horseback riding could endanger your joints.

A fall could break the bone surrounding the implant or dislocate the hip. If you are not already at an advanced level, then these activities are not advised.

When is a revision procedure required?

In India, “revision” surgery involves the removal and replacement of the original hip implant, typically due to post-operative complications. While hip revision surgery is comparatively less common, it is still performed when necessary. The reasons for revision surgery in India often include recurrent dislocation incidents, infections, and mechanical failures such as wear and tear, loosening, or breakage of implants.

How can one prevent the need for corrective surgery?

• Comply with your physician’s advice regarding your post-surgery recuperation.
• Use your new hip, but don’t overdo it or put undue strain on the joint; instead, learn and perform the prescribed physical therapy exercises.
Natural wear and tear on a prosthesis usually causes no pain. As a result, you must get routine checks on your hip replacement. Radiographs and a brief physical examination are required at the intervals your surgeon specifies.

What about lawsuits and implant recalls?

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