How Do You Know If You Need A Hip Replacement?

Hip replacement is a highly successful procedure in which part of the hip is replaced with a hip prosthesis (implant.) HSS performs more hip replacement surgeries than any other U.S. hospital. Hospital for Special Surgery is ranked by U.S. News & World Report as the number one hospital in the United States for orthopedic surgery.

How do you know if you need a hip replacement?

You should consider a hip replacement if you have these arthritic symptoms.

Severe hip pain that is not relieved by medication and interferes with your work, sleep or daily activities

Stiffness in the hip joint that limits movement and makes it difficult to walk.

Hip Joint

What are the different types of hip replacement surgery?

The three main types of hip replacements are

Total hip replacement (the most common)

Partial hip replacement

Hip surface replacement

The most common type of hip replacement surgery is called total hip replacement (also known as total hip arthroplasty). In this procedure, the worn or damaged part of your hip is replaced with an artificial hip implant. The socket is replaced by a durable plastic cup, which may or may not also include a titanium shell. Your femoral head will be removed and replaced with a ball made of ceramic or metal alloy. The new ball is attached to a metal stem that is inserted into the top of the femur.

Two other types of hip replacement surgery are usually indicated for patients in specific age groups and activity levels.

A partial hip replacement (also called a hemiarthroplasty) involves replacing only one side of the hip - the femoral head - instead of both sides in a total hip replacement. This procedure is most often used in older patients with hip fractures.

Hip surface replacements of the femoral head and articular fossa are most often performed in younger, more active patients.

How should I prepare for hip replacement surgery?

There are certain steps that patients can take before and after surgery to improve recovery time and outcomes. It is important to follow the instructions and guidance provided by your orthopedic surgeon, medical team and rehabilitation therapist. Visit Preparing for Surgery for information on pre-operative hip replacement classes and patient education materials about joint replacement surgery.

Can hip replacements be done on an outpatient basis?

Most patients will stay in the hospital for one or two nights after their surgery. Some patients may be able to have a hip replacement the same day and go home after the outpatient procedure.

How long does hip replacement surgery take?

Total hip replacement surgery takes about one and a half hours. 

What are hip implants made of?

There are three separate implants: the stem, the ball and the socket.

The stem, made out of metal (usually titanium or cobalt-chrome) is inserted into your natural thighbone.

The ball is usually made out of polished metal or ceramic, and fits on top of the stem.

The socket is usually a combination of a plastic liner and a cobalt-chrome or titanium backing.