Total Hip Replacement

About Total Hip Replacement

Total Hip Replacement, also known as hip arthroplasty, is where the hip joint is replaced with an implant by an Orthopaedic Surgeon. Any damaged bone and cartilage is removed and replaced with prosthetic components.

Why would I need a Total Hip Replacement?

Mr Barnes sees a variety of patients, many suffering from pain or lack of mobility. People that generally benefit from a Total Hip Replacement are experiencing;

• hip pain that limits their everyday activities like walking or climbing stairs
• continued hip pain throughout the day and night
• stiffness in the hip which limits leg movement
• little or no relief from non-surgical alternatives like anti-inflammatory drugs, physical therapy, or walking supports.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis of the hip is a debilitating condition that results from loss of cartilage within the joint. Osteoarthritis is usually associated with ‘wear and tear’ and is the most common type of arthritis. The main symptom is pain around the groin and hip area that may radiate down into your knee. As the disease progresses you may experience trouble with everyday activities such as putting on shoes and socks, driving a car or participating in recreational activities. In severe cases you may experience difficulty walking or sleeping.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

This is an autoimmune disease that causes pain and swelling of the joints. Rather than protecting the healthy tissue, with Rheumatoid Arthritis the immune system targets the lining of the joints, causing inflammation and damage. The main symptoms are joint pain, swelling, tenderness to touch and stiffness.

Post-traumatic Arthritis

This type of arthritis is the result of a serious hip injury or fracture. Overtime this injury causes hip pain and stiffness which can impair everyday life.

Avascular Necrosis

Also known as Osteonecrosis is when a dislocation or fracture to the hip may limit blood supply to the femoral head. Some diseases may also cause Avascular Necrosis.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip Dysplasia can occur when the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, and the hip becomes dislocated or unstable. It is usually detected in infants or children but can be identifed later on in life. Symptoms include a clicking hip joint, uneven legs, skin crease near buttocks, delayed sitting or walking in infants or uneven walking.

Do I need a hip replacement?

This question varies for each patient and you need to take into account your pain management and how this effects your everyday life. If you’re managing and can continue to carry out everyday activities, then you may want to wait. If you’re struggling to walk or the pain is impacting your quality of sleep, then it may be time to discuss your options with Mr Barnes.

During your appointment, Mr Barnes will discuss your non-surgical and surgical options and how to achieve the best results possible.