Why Do People Get Hip Replacements?

Hip replacement is a common surgical procedure used by surgeons to treat damaged hip joints. The procedure involves replacing the joint with a hip implant or hip prosthesis.

Hip replacement, also known as hip arthroplasty, is designed to improve the function of the hip joint and relieve pain. Getting a new hip will usually return a person to normal mobility. Most hip replacements can last for many years.

Most people who undergo hip replacement surgery will experience reduced pain, increased mobility and improved quality of life.

Why do people need a hip replacement?

The hip joint is where the top of the thigh or femur attaches to the pelvis. It provides stability and supports weight. Proper function of the hip joint is essential for lower body movement, including walking and standing.

Certain conditions or injuries can cause damage to parts of the hip joint, which can affect its function. Hip replacement surgery involves replacing the damaged part of the hip joint with a man-made material (such as plastic and metal).

Common conditions that may cause a person to need a hip replacement include

Osteoarthritis

rheumatoid arthritis

Osteonecrosis

Injuries and fractures

The most common condition that causes someone to need hip replacement surgery is osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis causes the cartilage in the joint to break down.

Hip replacement surgery removes the damaged cartilage surface and replaces it with an artificial joint or prosthesis. The procedure can greatly relieve pain and improve the function of the hip joint.

Who may need one?

People with advanced hip damage causing severe pain and limited movement may benefit from a hip replacement.

Before surgery, doctors will usually try non-surgical treatments such as medication, physiotherapy and injections. However, they will usually offer hip replacement surgery to those who continue to experience symptoms.

Older people are more likely to develop hip damage, such as osteoarthritis. Bone health also decreases with age, which increases the risk of hip fracture.

Types of hip replacements

There are several types of implants that can be used to replace parts of the hip, as well as different surgical techniques used for this procedure. Most methods involve replacing the ball at the top of the femur and then placing a cup or socket in the pelvis.

The surgeon usually inserts metal into the top of the femur. The head or ball of the implant is usually made of metal or ceramic and the cup placed in the pelvis is also usually made of metal.

They place a plastic lining matching the head into the cup so that the new hip joint can move freely and painlessly.

To attach the implant to the bone, the surgeon may use a special type of bone cement. In young people, however, the implant is usually a "press fit". This refers to the use of an implant with a special coating that allows the bone to grow over it.

Hybrid hip replacements combine these two techniques.

How to prepare

Before the procedure, a person will need to see a doctor and have some blood screening. People with certain medical conditions may also need to have other tests, including an electrocardiogram (to assess heart function) and a chest X-ray.

The doctor will also check the person's complete medical history and list of current medications, and perform a physical examination. In some cases, they also recommend strengthening exercises, weight loss and smoking cessation (if applicable) prior to surgery.

Other considerations include organising transport to and from the hospital and planning rest time after surgery.