Total Hip Replacement
Description: Primary hip replacement, also known as total hip replacement, involves replacing the damaged hip joint with a prosthetic implant. This surgery is typically performed to relieve pain and improve function in patients with severe arthritis or hip fractures.
What to Expect:
- Preoperative: Patients will undergo a thorough evaluation, including medical history, physical examination, and imaging studies (X-rays or MRI).
- Procedure: Under general or spinal anesthesia, a posterior approach to the hip is used by making an incision on the side of the hip joint to remove the damaged bone and cartilage. The prosthetic component are then implanted. The posterior approach is a muscle-sparing approach, similar to the anterior approach, as the muscles to the hip do not get cut and this allows for faster recovery early-on.
- Recovery: Most hip replacements are done as a day surgery with some patients just staying 1 night in the hospital. Physical therapy begins immediately after surgery to promote mobility and strength. Full recovery can take 3-6 months.
This question varies a lot on what you do, and any accommodations that can be made for you at work and at home. Most importantly is depends on you – your expectations, drive and recovery are all variable. Most “desk” type jobs can be resumed around 8-12 weeks later, sooner in some cases. Most physical jobs will need a stronger recovery, typically 3-4 months.
You may drive when:
1) You are no longer taking narcotic pain medication
2) You have full power and function to engage in emergency braking of your car if necessary.
This usually takes a minimum of 6 weeks.
Ideally, flying and long-distance travel should be postponed until six weeks after surgery. Short flights and travel can be undertaken 2-3 days post-surgery, but it’s important to get up and move every hour and to use a prescribed blood thinner.
Your physical condition is the biggest factor affecting your travel. You may still need a walker or cane to move safely and navigating crowded areas can be challenging. Planes, buses, and trains are often cramped, and sitting for extended periods can cause stiffness and hip pain.
In summary, if you can delay travel for the first six weeks, you will likely enjoy your trip more. Short flights, especially those necessary for returning home after surgery, should not be taken before 2-3 days and will require a prescribed blood thinner.
