A hip replacement surgery is also known as arthroplasty. It is a process whereby a surgeon removes a hip joint’s diseased parts before replacing them with artificial components that mimic the typical hip joint’s functions. This procedure is necessary if you have arthritis or osteonecrosis.
The hip joint is the most significant in the human body, and hip replacement aims for the following;
- Improved mobility
- Improved hip joint function
- Relieve pain from damaged hip joints.
The surgeon makes a hole during a hip replacement to access the diseased parts. They try to carry out this process using the tiniest incision possible and only use metal-on-metal bearing surfaces to avoid complications later.
Below, we discuss everything you need to know about robotic hip replacement.
Common Risks
The most common risks associated with hip replacement include the following;
Blood Clots
Blood clots can occur in the leg veins, which can be dangerous, as they might travel to the heart, lungs, or brain. However, doctors will give you blood-thinning medicine to contain clots.
Fracture
The hip joint’s healthy portions might fracture during surgery, even though they mainly heal independently. However, more extensive fractures can only be managed with screws and wires.
Infection
Infections might appear at the incision site and deep tissues. However, most are treatable with antibiotics. Certain conditions might require complete part removal and replacement.
How to Prepare for Hip Replacement Surgery
Preparing for this surgery takes weeks before the due date. Patients should be as healthy as possible, as it speeds their recovery and prevents complications.
You might consider the following things when preparing for surgery;
- Quit smoking, or limit your intake
- Arranging for transport to and from the hospital
- Meal preparation in advance
- Take part in core-strengthening exercises.
What is Involved in this Surgery?
As stated above, a robotic hip replacement happens by making a cut over the hip side and replacing diseased parts with healthier ones. This means only one or two cuts are made instead of an extended, deep cut. This procedure has less pain, fast healing, and low blood loss.
The ward staff looks after hip replacement patients after they return from the theater, and they should be able to eat within an hour. This meal gives patients the energy to walk out as soon as possible, thus making the healing process more rampant.
A physiotherapist is assigned to you after you have recovered from the anesthetic effects and helps you get back on your knees. Patients should shun specific movements when recovering, like hip bending.
Most hip replacement patients are discharged after three days but require crutches to walk correctly.
Signs that Indicate you Need a Hip Replacement
Below, we discuss the main signs that show you need a hip replacement.
Chronic Pain
The main sign that indicates you need a hip replacement is chronic pain. Hip joint damage causes adverse hip chronic pain, and you should contact your doctor immediately after you notice it. The main reason most people avoid these surgeries is the lengthy recovery period that hinders movement.
When you Struggle to Complete Routine Tasks
When choosing whether to have a hip replacement, the main factor to consider is how the injured hip affects your daily activities. Most people manage the pain, but a colossal hip disability makes it hard to handle basic tasks like;
- Wearing shoes
- Walking short distances
- Standing appropriately.
Treatment does not Alleviate Pain
Most people who experience hip joint problems do not need this procedure immediately, for example, arthritis. The medical practitioner might recommend alternative treatments like;
- Steroid injections
- Physical therapy
- Acupuncture
These treatments do not eliminate this condition but make the pain more tolerable and improve function.
When you Experience Side Effects from Medications
Most people experience side effects after taking medications, but this should indicate that you need total replacement. The most common side effects include the following;
- Ulcers
- Stomach irritation
- Weak immune system
- Increased blood clots and stroke.
Home Recovery
Your caregivers will give you the best tips to look after your new hip after leaving the hospital. Patients should arrange to have a friend drop them off after surgery.
Final Thoughts
Hip replacement is a standard procedure that replaces damaged hip joints. The above article has discussed all you need to know about them, and more information is available online.
