Hip replacement is a surgical procedure to relieve hip pain by replacing parts of the hip joint with artificial implants. These implants are usually made from metal, ceramic, or hard plastic. It helps reduce pain and improve function.
At Kimball Health Services, our orthopedic surgeon, Dr. MacMillan, and his first assistant, Karen Wenner, APRN, DNP, provide state-of-the-art hip replacement surgery. We understand the significant impact of hip pain and mobility issues on your quality of life. Our personalized hip replacement surgery is focused on alleviating hip pain and getting you back to the activities you love.
The hip joint includes a ball at the top of the thigh bone and a socket in the pelvis. Hip replacement, also known as hip arthroplasty, involves replacing one or both parts of this joint.
During hip replacement, the damaged parts of the hip joint get removed and replaced with parts usually constructed of metal, ceramic, and hard plastic. This artificial implant helps reduce pain and improve function. Dr. MacMillan utilizes MicroPort Orthopedic products in his joint replacement surgeries.
Hip replacement surgery is usually done when other treatment options, such as medication, joint injections, walking aids, and physical therapy, have failed to provide relief from pain.
Persistent pain in the hip joint can interfere with sleep and affect your ability to walk. Conditions that damage the hip joint may necessitate hip replacement surgery.
Osteoarthritis is the gradual breakdown of cartilage. Cartilage is the slippery tissue that helps joints move smoothly by covering the ends of bones. When cartilage wears away, bones rub against each other, causing joint pain, swelling, and stiffness.
You develop rheumatoid arthritis when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues, particularly the lining of joints. It can lead to inflammation, pain, and swelling in the affected joints. Inflammation in the joints erodes cartilage and underlying bone, resulting in damaged and deformed joints.
Osteonecrosis is a condition in which the blood supply to the ball portion of the hip joint is reduced or interrupted, leading to collapse and bone deformity. Symptoms of osteonecrosis may include pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion in the affected area.
A hip fracture is a break in the upper part of the thigh bone (femur) close to the hip joint caused by a fall, accident, or medical condition, such as osteoporosis. Symptoms of a hip fracture include severe pain in the hip or groin area, inability to bear weight on the affected leg, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the leg.
Hip dysplasia is a condition in which the hip joint does not develop properly, and the thigh bone (femur) does not fit correctly into the hip socket. It can lead to a dislocation. Hip dysplasia is often present from birth but may not be diagnosed till later in life.
Femoroacetabular impingement syndrome refers to an abnormal contact between the ball (femoral head) and the socket of the hip joint. It causes the two bones to painfully rub together, leading to friction and damage within the joint.
Factors such as the patient's age, overall health, the severity of joint damage, and the surgeon's recommendation help determine the type of hip replacement you may need.
Before you get a hip replacement, your orthopedic surgeon will examine your hips to check for range of movement and strength of muscles. You will be asked about your medical history, including your symptoms, past treatments, and any medications or supplements you take.
You may also need several tests before scheduling a hip replacement.
During this examination, please feel free to ask any questions or concerns about the surgery, such as which medications to avoid or continue the week before surgery.
You may need to prepare for hip replacement surgery several weeks before your procedure for fast and safe recovery.
During hip replacement surgery, patients can expect a comprehensive procedure that typically takes 1-2 hours.
Before the surgery starts, you will receive anesthesia. It can be either general, which puts you into a sleep-like state, or below-the-waist, which numbs the lower half of your body.
You may also receive a numbing medicine in and around the joint or around nerves to help block pain after your surgery.
Your surgeon will make an incision over the hip to perform a hip replacement. Damaged bone and cartilage will be removed, leaving healthy bone intact.
Dr. MacMillan removes the head of the femur and makes an opening in its top. He then inserts a metal stem into the thigh bone and tops it with a replacement ball.
Next, the doctor implants the replacement socket into the pelvic bone. They bend and move your leg to ensure it functions properly and close the incision with stitches.
Once the procedure is complete, you will be moved to a recovery area for a few hours to rest until your anesthesia wears off. The staff monitors your blood pressure, pulse, pain or comfort level, and medication needs.
You may go home the same day as your surgery, but sometimes, you may need to stay a day or two for observation or to resolve complications.
Recovering from hip replacement surgery varies from person to person. To help your body heal and get stronger, make sure you drink lots of fluids and eat healthy and balanced meals. You may be recommended iron supplements.
Physical therapy can help you recover the use of your joints and muscles after hip replacement surgery. You may be recommended strengthening and mobility exercises and daily activities to help you regain your strength and range of motion over time.
You may also be advised to use a walking aid, such as a walker or crutches. Return to regular activities, such as walking, bending, and climbing stairs without assistance, is usually gradual and can take 6 to 12 weeks.
Here are some tips to make things easier during your recovery at home.
At Kimball Health Services, we are committed to helping you regain mobility, alleviate pain, and enjoy a better quality of life. Our expert team takes a patient-focused approach to perform hip replacement surgery.
As one of the top critical access hospitals in the nation, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality, patient-centered care.
In case of an emergency, call 911 or walk into our emergency department anytime. For appointments, call us at 308-235-1966 or fill out our online form. We're here for you whenever you need us.
