When hip pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion keep you from your daily activities, you may need a full joint replacement. For patients with arthritis, the most common source of debilitating hip pain, the goal of hip replacement is to restore function and decrease pain. According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS), hip replacement was first performed in 1960 and is one of the most successful operations in all of medicine.
Anatomy
The hip is a ball and socket joint. The socket is formed by part of the pelvic bone (acetabulum) and the ball is formed by the femoral head at the top of the thighbone (femur). The surfaces of the ball and socket are covered by a slippery tissue called articular cartilage. Normally, the cartilage coating over the bones makes the joint move smoothly and provides an additional shock-absorbent cushion. Arthritis occurs when the cartilage surface wears out and you begin rubbing bone on bone. This can cause pain, stiffness, and decreased motion to the hip joint.
Evaluation
An orthopedic surgeon will give you a thorough evaluation that includes your medical history, a physical exam to test hip mobility, strength, and alignment, and imaging tests such as x-ray or MRI to see the amount of damage in your hip.
Total Hip Replacement Surgery
Your doctor may recommend surgery if conservative treatment methods have not relieved your hip pain or allowed you to continue with daily activities. Total hip replacement surgery involves the removal of the arthritic surfaces of the hip joint and replacing them with total hip implants. The implants are designed to replicate the hip joint and are made with metal, polyethylene (a durable plastic), and/or ceramic. This allows the joint to move smoothly again.
Joint replacement is a major decision, and at The Center, your orthopedic surgeon will provide you with as much information as possible to choose the right procedure for you. Our surgeons stay current with advances in anesthesia, surgical techniques, and technology to offer both outpatient total joint replacement and total hip replacement with Makoplasty.