Hip replacement surgery

Hip replacement for arthritis has been lauded as the operation of the century. Its success rate is around 98% for pain relief. Modern implants are lasting longer, and the lifespan of a hip replacement is 10-15 years for the vast majority. Sometimes longer.

There are numerous different types of hip replacement. The vast majority of which are highly successful. I use the Taperloc Exceed replacement by Zimmer Biomet, and the CPT cemented stem where indicated. These have excellent long term track records in national and international registries.

Patient pathway

So what happens when you are listed for a hip replacement?

You have a medical pre-assessment to ensure your optimum fitness for surgery.
You come in on the day of surgery.
The operation lasts approximately one hour.
It can take place under general anaesthetic, or with a spinal injection, or the two combined.
A specific pain relief pathway (the Enhanced Recovery Programme) is undertaken post operatively to ensure your maximum comfort.
You can expect to start mobilising day one post surgery. You will be able to put your full weight through your operated side (initially with a frame, then crutches, and eventually progress to no mobility aids).

An XRay and blood test are taken after surgery.
You can reasonably expect to regain independent walking (with crutches) on the ward on day 2-4 post operatively such that you can safely go home to your own environment.
Most people have rid themselves of their crutches before 6 weeks are up.
You will be reviewed at 6 weeks post operative, and subsequent reviews if required, to ensure your recovery is proceeding as planned.