Having a hip replacement involves the removal of the damaged or diseased portion of the hip joint, and replacing it with a prosthetic hip. This can be done for patients with hip fractures, but it is even more frequently done for patients with hip arthritis. This procedure enables those with hip arthritis to finally enjoy a life free from hip pain, or at least with much less pain than before.
There are different types of hip replacement surgery, including total, partial, and minimally invasive. Let’s talk about what’s involved in each type of hip replacement, and where you can go for an evaluation and treatment of your hip pain.
Total Hip Replacement
A total hip replacement involves replacing the damaged bone and associated structures with prosthetic parts. This is the most common type of hip replacement surgery.
The ball portion (the femoral head) of the ball-and-socket hip joint is replaced with a metal or ceramic ball at the top of the femur (thighbone, or upper leg bone). The socket portion of the hip joint is replaced with a bio-grade synthetic cup. A metal stem is attached to the ball to keep it firmly attached to the femur.
Partial Hip Replacement
A partial hip replacement involves replacing only the ball part of the hip joint and not the socket. This operation is usually not recommended for arthritis patients because it is insufficient in addressing the pain. Rather, this procedure may be recommended for patients who have hip fractures, such as from an accident.
Minimally Invasive Hip Replacement
Even a total hip replacement can be done via minimally invasive surgery. The benefits of this type of operation include less bleeding during surgery, fewer complications, smaller scars, reduced postoperative pain, and generally a faster recovery.
Are You a Good Candidate for Hip Replacement Surgery?
Not everyone with hip arthritis or a hip fracture is a good candidate for a hip replacement. Typically, doctors like to exhaust the less-invasive methods of treatment first before recommending hip replacement surgery.
Your overall health and medical history will be taken into consideration when your doctor is recommending treatment for your hip pain. The best candidates for a hip replacement are those with normal body weight and who understand what must be done to maintain a new prosthetic hip.
Hip Replacement Surgeon in Kansas City, KS
Our skilled and experienced orthopedic surgeons here at Midwest Orthopaedics treat patients with a wide range of musculoskeletal issues, from fractures to arthritis to sports injuries. We perform joint replacement surgeries regularly, and we also offer physical therapy services to all of our patients.
If you are interested in finding out more about hip replacement surgery, we invite you to come in for a consultation. Our doctors will take a complete assessment of your health and medical history, and they will then discuss your options with you.
If you have any questions or would like to make an appointment with one of our outstanding orthopedic surgeons, call us today at (913) 362-8317 or fill out our convenient online request form. We look forward to helping you enjoy life without hip pain!
