Hip Replacement

What is a hip replacement?

Hip replacement surgery removes the worn or damaged parts of your hip joint and replaces them with a new artificial joint. The intention is to reduce pain and enable you to move and exercise more comfortably.


There are many types of hip replacement. Your surgeon will select the type of hip replacement that will offer you the best function and most durability. There are many options and considerations which your surgeon can explain during your appointment.


What is hip replacement used for?

Hip replacement is most often performed for hip osteoarthritis but can also be used to treat inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. Avascular necrosis, where the blood supply to the hip is interrupted, as well as some hip fractures, can also be treated with hip replacement.


Hip symptoms can vary but most patients suffer from pain and stiffness, particularly in the groin or over the outer thigh. Sometimes pain can travel down to the knee, and occasionally patients may only experience pain in the knee.


The pain usually deteriorates with activity and may also wake you from your sleep. It becomes a challenge to walk distances and you may find ordinary activity difficult.

Surgery Information

Before the Surgery

At your initial appointment, your consultant will examine the function of your hip by asking questions, observing how you walk and carefully moving your joint.

 

Often before your consultation, you will have diagnostic tests such as x-rays. Your GP or physiotherapist may have already arranged them. These help your surgeon confirm your diagnosis and decide how best to treat you.

Depending on your condition, you may need additional tests such as a CT or MRI scan.

 

Almost all patients are admitted on the day of their surgery. Most patients have a spinal anaesthetic and sedation so they sleep through the surgery. We tailor your anaesthetic to allow you to get up quickly and minimise any side effects.

 

There are numerous ways to access the hip joint, but most surgeons at Wellington Orthopaedic & Sports Surgeons use a posterior approach. The hip joint is removed and replaced with a new socket and ball components.

After the Surgery

We encourage our patients to walk on the same day of their surgery and the physiotherapists and nursing staff will help you achieve this. Patients typically stay in the hospital for two to three days and are discharged using crutches.

Everyone recovers at different speeds, but in general, patients can expect to wean off crutches from 2 weeks and drive again from 4 to 6 weeks

Make a Referral

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Contact Us

Feel free to get in touch and one of our team members will get back to you as soon as possible.