Health All about hip replacements Thinking of having a hip replacement? Its the most common form of joint surgery heres what you need to know Words: Claire lavelle M ost of us will know someone whos had a hip replacement but how do you know if its right for you? And is there a better course of treatment than surgery? When our hip joints are healthy, we rarely give them a second thought. Theyre the bodys second largest weight-bearing joint (the largest is the knee). The head of the top of the thigh bone fits into a cup-shaped socket called the acetabulum, which is stable and sturdy thanks to strong ligaments and muscles. But if the joint starts to deteriorate, reduced mobility and pain can have a significant impact on everyday life and overall wellbeing. Before discussing hip surgery, your consultant should first offer you non-surgical options, such as exercise and advice on weight loss. Many people can manage their condition effectively this way, often by using a combination of medication and lifestyle changes. surgery the way forward? In some cases, however, surgery may be the best option. There are a couple of different types: total hip replacement (tHp) Here, the top of the thigh bone (the ball) is removed and the socket hollowed out. Your surgeon will use high-density polythene to line the socket, into which the new ball will be fitted. This is secured to the thigh bone using a titanium shaft, inserted down into the bone. The implants may then be secured to your own bone using a special cement to ensure the structure is stable. Alternatively, your surgeon may choose to use implants with roughened surfaces that encourage your own bone to grow over them. Modern artificial hips are designed to last 15 to 20 years. minimally invasive hip replacement This type of surgery uses specially designed instruments that are passed through small incisions. There is less damage to the muscle, which means quicker healing and recovery time, says Mr Nirav Shah, consultant orthopaedic surgeon at BMI Goring Hall Hospital. The NHS reports that its as safe and effective as traditional surgery, although waiting times can be much longer. Whos suitable? Some people may not be offered a hip replacement, while many have to endure long waiting times around one in 10 people have to wait more than 18 weeks. But theres no such thing as being too young for a hip replacement or too old. If the hip is damaged or diseased in a way that has a profound impact on quality of life, surgery can help, says Mr Shah. My youngest patient was 22 and my oldest 95. But we do need to ensure the patient is healthy enough to undergo surgery. Whats the alternative? Hip resurfacing involves removing damaged surfaces from inside the hip joint and replacing them with a metal surface. Less bone is removed, but its not so popular these days. n For more information, see Arthritis Cares surgery and Arthritis booklet ive got my confidence back ive got my confidence back ive got my confidence back colette Willis, 57, has osteoarthritis. she had a hip replacement 15 months ago Id had years of pain, and then my hip started making strange clonking sounds when I walked, and it would give out on me. It was very frustrating as it stopped me working it was too difficult for me to use my car. I was very lucky, as I got a referral to a Bupa hospital, but I still had to wait more than a year to have the operation. After the op, it was quite painful for the first week, but then it felt really good. Now Im back at work, and I feel safe walking. Its given me my confidence back. My advice is that, no matter how much you think it hurts, do the exercises after surgery, as its so important to regain your strength after walking oddly for a long time.
