FAQs for Hip & Hip Replacement

FAQs for Hip & Hip Replacement

Who needs hip replacement ?

Hip is a ball and socket joint, if any of the two are damaged beyond repair the patient requires hip replacement.

Clinical conditions which requires hip replacement includes :

  • When the joint becomes degenerated or damaged.
  • Fracture of head and neck of the ball of the femur (hip bone) in old age.
  • Certain fractures of the socket of the hip joint.

AVN (avascular necrosis) :

  • Damage to the ball of the hip due to problems with blood circulation.

How to decide which implant is good for THR (total hip replacement) ?

A good implant should have the following qualities :

  • Have a lifespan of 20yrs or more.
  • Allows normal range of motion and activities.
  • Should have a good track record.
  • Should be made up of titanium alloy.
  • Should allow sports and leisure activities in young patients also.
All the above mentioned quality of implant can be determined by discussing it with your orthopedic surgeon, to decide which implant is best suitable for you as certain implants are better for younger age group whereas others are for elderly osteoporotic bone.

What is bipolar hip replacement ?

Hip replacement which allows movement at 2 surfaces i.e., ball & artificial socket and artificial and natural socket is termed as bipolar hip replacement.

In bipolar hip replacement the chances of damage to the cartilage and bone of the socket is less as compared to unipolar hip replacement.

Do all hip fractures require replacement ?

Not all hip fractures require replacement. Hip replacement depends on the location of the fracture, age of patient and presence of other major illnesses. In very old age patient with fracture of the neck of femur (just below the ball of the hip joint), it is preferred to replace the head of the femur.

Do all hip fractures end up in bed ?

No, hip fractures do not end up in bed. It’s a false belief. With proper treatment (surgery) and rehabilitation program one can resume to his/ her routine as normal but with some initial activity modification.

Has incidence of hip fractures increased ?

Yes, due to increased life expectancy, the incidence of hip fracture increases with age in both men and women due presence bone diseases like osteoporosis and increased incidences of fall.
  • Osteoporosis - weakness of bones.
  • Chronic diseases of liver and kidney.
  • Neurological diseases causing imbalance and fall.
  • Road traffic accident.
  • Fall in bathroom or wet floor.

Is hip replacement age related ?

Yes, hip replacement is age related. As we age we suffer from age related disorders like arthritis and osteoporosis which reduces the joint space and damage the bone of the weight bearing joints. For younger patients, hip reconstruction is preferred and beyond 55-60yrs hip replacement is preferred.

What activities can be resumed after hip replacement ?

Post hip replacement and proper rehabilitation program one resume to his/ her daily activities as before with some minor activity modifications like not to squat or sit on the floor in cross leg position.

Is range of motion lost after hip replacement ?

No, range of motion is not lost after hip replacement. In fact the person is able to move his limb more freely post replacement without any pain.

Can I travel post hip replacement ?

Yes, but you will require ‘implant card’ which will help you go past metal detectors.