Hip Replacement Surgery: Procedure, Implant Types & Recovery Tips
Introduction
Hip pain can be life-changing, especially in cases of arthritis, hip injury, or the wear and tear of the ball-and-socket joint over time. It can affect your ability to walk, sleep, and perform everyday activities comfortably. Thankfully, hip replacement surgery offers a safe and effective solution for many people. In this blog, we'll walk you through the hip replacement procedure, explore different types of hip replacement options, explain hip replacement implants, and share helpful hip replacement recovery tips. We'll also discuss Meril's advanced Latitud Hip Replacement System, designed to restore mobility and improve quality of life.
What is Hip Replacement Surgery?
In the hip replacement surgery, the damaged hip joint is removed surgically, and an artificial implant is inserted in its place.[1] It is usually done when the joint has worn out due to arthritis, fractures, or other conditions that cause chronic pain and stiffness.
The goal of hip replacements is simple: to relieve pain, restore mobility, and help you return to doing the things you love.
Hip Replacement Procedure
The procedure typically involves the following steps:
Anaesthesia: You'll be given either general or spinal anaesthesia.
Incision: A small cut is made near the hip to access the joint.
Removal: The damaged bone and cartilage are removed.
Implantation: The artificial joint (implant) is placed into the hip.
Closure: The doctor closes the incision with stitches or staples.
The surgery usually takes about 1–2 hours, and many patients begin walking with support within a day or two.
Types of Hip Replacement
Your surgeon will recommend a treatment plan tailored to your specific condition. There are a several types of hip replacement surgeries.
Total Hip Replacement: The most common type, where both the ball (femoral head) and socket (acetabulum) are replaced with implants.
Partial Hip Replacement: Only the ball part of the joint is replaced. It is often performed when the femoral head is damaged or in certain types of hip fractures.
Revision Hip Replacement: It is a second surgery to replace or repair a previous hip implant that may have worn out, loosened, or failed.
Minimally Invasive Hip Replacement: This technique utilises smaller incisions, resulting in less muscle damage and a quicker recovery time, as well as reduced pain.
Hip Replacement Implants
Hip implants are made of strong, durable materials like metal, ceramic, and polyethylene. These implants are designed to mimic the natural movement of your hip joint.
Meril's Latitud Hip Replacement System
Meril's Latitud Hip Replacement System is a modern solution for total hip replacement. It includes:
Titanium alloy stem, known for its strength and biocompatibility.
Hydroxyapatite coating to promote bone growth
Highly crosslinked polyethylene liner for reduced wear
Modular design for better fit and flexibility
It is a system designed for cementless fixation, which means it allows natural bone to grow around the implant for long-term stability.
Hip Replacement Recovery
Recovery from hip replacement surgery varies from person to person, but here are some general tips:
Recovery Tips and What to Expect
What to Expect | Tips |
Pain and swelling | Use a walker / crutches, take prescribed medication |
Improved mobility | Start gentle exercises prescribed by your doctor and avoid twisting |
Walking unaided | Increase activity level gradually |
Return to normal | Resume daily tasks while avoiding high-impact sports |
Recovery Tips
Follow your physiotherapy plan: Exercises help strengthen muscles and improve flexibility.
Eat a balanced diet: As with any recovery, it is essential to fuel your body with nutritious food to support your healing.
Avoid bending or twisting: Protect the surgical site by avoiding unnecessary movements during recovery.
Use assistive devices: Walkers or canes can help in the early stages of recovery.
Stay positive: You may get overwhelmed after the surgery, as recovery takes time, but progress is steady.
Benefits of Hip Replacement
Here are some of the key benefits:
Pain relief: After the hip replacement surgery, the patient typically experiences a significant reduction in pain.
Improved mobility: You'll be able to walk, climb stairs, and move freely.
Better sleep: Reduced pain often leads to improved sleep quality compared to the pre-surgery period.
Enhanced quality of life: You can return to hobbies, work, and social activities.
Long-lasting results: Modern hip replacement implants like Meril's Latitud system are built to last.
Conclusion
Hip replacement surgery is a life-changing surgery, as it can help you regain your independence and comfort. With advanced options like Meril's Latitud Hip Replacement System, patients can expect good results and a smoother recovery. Whether you're considering surgery yourself or supporting a loved one through it, understanding the process makes all the difference.
FAQs
Q1. How long does a hip replacement last?
Most implants last 15–20 years or more, depending on activity levels and overall health.
Q2. Is hip replacement painful?
You may experience some discomfort after surgery, but pain is usually well-managed with medication and improves quickly.
Q3. Can I walk after a hip replacement?
Yes, most patients begin walking with support within one to two days after the surgery. Most doctors will recommend physiotherapy after surgery to help you make a full recovery. [2]
Q4. Are there risks involved?
Just like any surgery, there are risks, but complications are rare and manageable with proper care.
Q5. What makes Meril's Latitud system unique?
Its Titanium alloy stem, hydroxyapatite coating, and modular design offer good fit, durability, and bone integration.
