Orthopedics focuses on the musculoskeletal system. Learn about the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of bone, joint, ligament, and muscle conditions.
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Once the decision for surgery is made, the focus shifts to preparation and the procedure itself. Hip replacement is a major operation, but it is a well-rehearsed one. Hospitals and surgical teams have streamlined the process to maximize safety and efficiency. Understanding what happens in the operating room and the days following can significantly reduce anxiety.
The treatment phase involves the surgery, the immediate hospital stay, and the initial weeks of healing at home. Recovery is a partnership between you and your medical team. Your surgeon replaces the part, but you are responsible for the rehab that makes it work. This section walks you through the timeline, from admission to your first steps on the new joint.
To understand orthopedics, one must understand the intricate machinery of the body that allows fo
Preparation begins weeks before the surgery date. You may be asked to attend a “joint class” to learn about the procedure. You will likely need medical clearance from your primary care doctor to ensure your heart and lungs are strong enough.
You may need to stop certain medications, like blood thinners or anti-inflammatory drugs, a week before surgery to prevent bleeding. Preparing your home is also vital: removing tripping hazards like rugs, setting up a recovery station with essentials nearby, and perhaps installing a raised toilet seat. You will also be instructed to fast (no food or drink) from midnight the night before surgery.
r motion. The musculoskeletal system is an engineering marvel composed of several distinct tissue types that must function in harmony.
On the day of surgery, you will be admitted and prepped. Anesthesia is administered—this can be general anesthesia (you are asleep) or spinal anesthesia (you are numb from the waist down but awake/sedated). Spinal anesthesia is often preferred, as it has fewer side effects and a lower risk of blood clots.
The surgery typically takes 1 to 2 hours. The surgeon makes an incision, moves the muscles aside, and dislocates the hip joint. They cut away the damaged femoral head and prepare the hollow center of the thighbone. The metal stem is inserted. Then, the socket is reamed out to remove damaged cartilage, and the metal cup is pressed into place. Finally, the ball is attached to the stem, the joint is put back together, and the incision is closed with staples or stitches.
Implants can be cemented or uncemented. Cemented implants use a special medical bone cement that dries in 10 minutes, providing immediate fixation. This type is often used for older patients with softer bone.
Uncemented implants have a rough surface that mimics bone texture. They are pressed into the bone, and over the coming months, your natural bone grows into the metal, locking it in place biologically. This type of implant is preferred for younger, active patients.
Many surgeons now use minimally invasive techniques with smaller incisions (3-4 inches versus 8-10 inches). This causes less soft tissue damage, potentially leading to less pain and a faster recovery. However, the skill of the surgeon is more important than the size of the scar.
You will wake up in the recovery room. Nurses will monitor your vitals and pain levels. You will have a dressing on your hip and possibly a drain to remove excess fluid. You will likely have compression boots on your legs to prevent blood clots.
Pain management is a priority. You will receive medication through your IV or orally. Physical therapists will often get you out of bed and walking on the day of surgery. This early movement is crucial for preventing clots and stiffness. You will use a walker or crutches for stability.
The typical hospital stay for a hip replacement has decreased dramatically. Many patients go home the same day (outpatient surgery) or stay just one night. You will be discharged once you can walk safely with an assistive device, get in and out of bed, and use the bathroom independently.
Before you leave, the team will ensure your pain is controlled with oral medication. You will need someone to drive you home. You will be given instructions on wound care (keeping the dressing dry) and a list of exercises to do at home.
The first two weeks are about healing the incision and managing swelling. You should ice the hip frequently. You will likely be on a blood thinner (like aspirin or a stronger drug) for a few weeks to prevent clots.
You will have “hip precautions” to follow to prevent dislocation. These usually involve not bending your hip past 90 degrees (like sitting on a low chair) and not crossing your legs. Anterior approach patients often have fewer restrictions. You will gradually wean off the walker to a cane and then walk unassisted as your strength returns.
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Most patients need strong narcotic pain medication for only a few days to a week. Over-the-counter Tylenol or anti-inflammatories are usually sufficient.
You can usually shower after 2-3 days if you have a waterproof dressing. If you have a standard dressing, you must keep it dry until the staples are removed (usually 10-14 days). Do not soak in a bath or pool for at least 4-6 weeks 4–6
You can drive when you are off narcotic pain medication and have regained enough reflexes to brake suddenly. This stage is usually 2 to 4 weeks after surgery, or sooner if the surgery was on your left leg and you drive an automatic.
Sleeping on your back with a pillow between your legs is safest initially. You can usually sleep on your non-operative side with a pillow between your knees after a few weeks. Avoid sleeping on your stomach.
Call your doctor immediately if you have a fever over 101°F, increasing redness or heat around the incision, or continuous drainage of fluid from the wound. Infection is rare but serious.
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