Important Things To Consider Before Getting A Total Hip Replacement

The Differences Between Prostheses

Besides the different types of hip replacements that a patient can receive based on their needs and the surgeon performing the surgery, another significant difference among prostheses is how they are affixed to the bone. For instance, there are cemented and cementless prostheses. Components of the prosthetic may be attached with bone cement, or it can be “cementless,” which allows the existing bone to grow into the prosthetic. Cementless is the most common technique used for primary and revision hip replacements in North America. Whether cemented or cementless prostheses (or a combination) is used largely depends on the surgeon’s preferences, as well as the patient’s lifestyle and physiology.

Post-Surgery Considerations

Although the road to recovery is a long, tedious, and challenging one, there are a few things patients will need to know once their surgery is over. For one, most hip replacement patients usually remain in the hospital for two to five days following their surgery, and patients who need extra care or do not have support at home may be transferred from the hospital to a rehabilitation center right away. Depending on the surgeon’s preference and surgical technique, the patient may also be given “hip precautions” to prevent their implant from dislocating or injuring the patient. These precautions generally include avoiding crossing the legs and no excessive rotating or bending of the hip for a minimum of six weeks. Special pillows that provide extra support and comfort for the patient and their new hip may be used as well, and the pillow is placed between the legs to avoid these positions.

Twenty-four hours after the surgery, fortunately, most patients are able to sit at the side of the bed and stand, and most are encouraged to walk with assistance as well. A nurse or physical therapist can teach individuals how to move safely while protecting the new hip as it heals. Individuals may also wear special compression socks and may be given blood-thinning medications to help reduce the chance of the patient developing blood clots in the legs.