Hip replacement surgery, also known as hip arthroplasty, is a medical procedure that has transformed the lives of millions across the globe. It involves replacing a damaged or diseased hip joint with an artificial one.
While the idea of undergoing hip replacement surgery might seem daunting, understanding the reasons behind the need for a hip replacement can help demystify the process and highlight its benefits.
Here’s a simple breakdown of why people might need this life-changing surgery.
Understanding Hip Replacement Surgery
Hip replacement surgery, also known as hip arthroplasty, is a medical procedure in which a damaged or worn-out hip joint is replaced with an artificial joint.
The artificial hip joint usually consists of a ball component (made of durable ceramic or metal) that fits into a socket component (often made of metal, ceramic, or plastic), creating a smooth, gliding surface.
Hip replacements can be performed as total hip replacements, where both the ball and socket of the hip joint are replaced, or as partial replacements, which involve replacing only one part of the joint.
The surgery can be done using traditional open surgery or minimally invasive techniques, involving smaller incisions and potentially a shorter recovery time.
Top Reasons for Hip Replacement Surgery
Hip replacement surgery has offered countless people a chance at improved mobility and pain relief. But when does one become a good candidate for such a significant medical procedure? It typically comes down to the point where hip symptoms severely impact one’s ability to engage in everyday activities and where more conservative treatments have failed to provide sufficient relief.
Here are the top reasons for hip replacement surgery:
Arthritis of the Hip Joint
Arthritis is the most common trigger for hip replacement surgery, with several types affecting the hip, including:
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis, often referred to as “wear and tear” arthritis, is the most common reason individuals undergo hip replacement surgery. It results from the deterioration of joint cartilage.
Over time, this leads to pain and stiffness in the hip, making everyday activities challenging. Hip replacement surgery can offer relief by replacing worn-out joint surfaces with durable artificial components.
Rheumatoid arthritis
Unlike osteoarthritis, which is primarily due to aging and wear, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation of the joint lining. This inflammation can erode the cartilage and eventually damage the entire joint.
Hip replacement is a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis that aims to remove inflamed and damaged areas, alleviate pain, and restore function.
Psoriatic arthritis
This is another form of arthritis linked to the skin condition psoriasis. Psoriatic arthritis can affect the hips, among other joints.
Osteonecrosis
Osteonecrosis of the hip occurs when there is a significant reduction in blood flow to the femoral head (the ball part of the hip joint). This causes the bone tissue to die due to a lack of oxygen and nutrients, eventually leading to the collapse of the femoral head.
The exact reasons behind the reduced blood flow can vary, including trauma, long-term use of high-dose steroids, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain medical conditions. Osteonecrosis often requires hip replacement surgery when significant collapse has occurred, as other treatments are unlikely to be effective in advanced stages.
Trauma
Traumatic injuries such as those from car accidents or severe falls can cause significant damage to the hip joint. Fractures to the hip bone or dislocations can damage the cartilage and bone, leading to instability, pain, and sometimes post-traumatic arthritis.
When the structural integrity of the hip is compromised to a great extent, hip replacement may be the best option to restore function and relieve pain.
Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI)
Femoroacetabular Impingement, or FAI, is a condition where extra bone grows along one or both of the bones, forming the hip joint – either on the femur (ball side) or the acetabulum (socket side). This extra bone gives the bones an irregular shape, and they don’t fit together perfectly.
The irregularity leads to friction during hip movement, which, over time, can damage the joint, causing pain and limiting mobility. Treatment may range from physiotherapy to surgery, with hip replacement being considered in severe cases where other treatments have failed to provide relief.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a condition present from birth where the hip socket doesn’t fully cover the ball portion of the upper thighbone. This partial coverage can lead to dislocation and other damage to the hip joint.
Over time, the abnormal fitting can cause wear and tear on the cartilage, leading to pain and arthritis. In adults, hip replacement surgery may be recommended if the condition leads to significant joint damage and pain.
Benign Tumors and Cancer
Benign tumors and cancers within the hip joint or surrounding tissue can directly impact the strength and functionality of the joint. While benign tumors might not spread like cancer, their presence can interfere with joint movements and cause pain.
Depending on the location and size of the tumor or cancer, treatment may necessitate the removal of affected bone and tissue, sometimes requiring hip replacement to restore the function of the joint.
Perthes Disease
Perthes Disease is a pediatric condition that affects the hip. It temporarily disrupts the blood supply to the rounded head of the femur (thighbone), causing the bone to die in a process known as avascular necrosis.
Over time, the body will attempt to heal, which can lead to changes in the shape and structure of the hip joint, potentially causing pain and limiting movement. While not all cases of Perthes Disease lead to hip replacement later in life, some individuals may require surgery as adults due to the lasting effects on the hip joint structure and function.
Hip Replacement Surgery in North Dakota
Struggling with hip pain or limited mobility? Don’t let discomfort dictate your life. At The Bone & Joint Center, we specialize in transforming lives through advanced orthopedic care, including expert hip replacement surgery.
Our board-certified and fellowship-trained surgeons are at the forefront of treating complex hip conditions. They utilize cutting-edge techniques that focus on minimizing recovery time and maximizing your quality of life.
For more information about us or to schedule a consultation, call us today at (701) 946-7400/(866) 900-8650 or visit our appointment request page. We look forward to serving you!
