Hip replacement is a surgical procedure where a damaged or diseased hip joint is replaced with artificial components.
Typically performed to alleviate severe pain and improve mobility caused by conditions like arthritis or fractures, the surgery involves removing damaged bone and cartilage and replacing them with prosthetic implants made of metal, plastic, or ceramic.
This artificial joint mimics the hip’s natural movement, allowing for enhanced function and reduced discomfort. Recovery involves rehabilitation exercises to regain strength and flexibility.
Hip replacements have proven highly effective in restoring the quality of life for individuals suffering from debilitating hip conditions.
Advances in surgical techniques and materials continue to improve the outcomes and recovery process for this common and successful procedure.
Some of the most common signs that someone needs hip replacement surgery include:
When it comes to hip replacement surgery, you have a few different options.
Anterior hip replacement surgery is like a modern makeover for your hip joint. Instead of going through the back or side, Dr. Bigby takes a front-door approach. This method can mean less cutting of muscles, which might make the recovery quicker and less painful.
Picture it like remodeling your kitchen without tearing down all the walls—less mess and faster results. During the surgery, you lie on your back, and the surgeon uses special tools to reach the hip joint without cutting the muscles.
While it's not for everyone or every hip problem, lots of people like it because it can mean less pain after the operation, a shorter time in the hospital, and getting back to your regular routine sooner. This approach is commonly used by Dr. Bigby.
Revision hip replacement, also known as hip revision surgery, is a procedure performed to address issues or complications that may arise after an initial hip replacement. While hip replacements are generally successful, factors such as wear and tear, infection, or implant loosening over time can necessitate a revision.
During revision surgery, the surgeon replaces or repairs components of the original artificial hip joint to restore function and alleviate any problems. This procedure is often more complex than the initial hip replacement and may involve the removal and replacement of worn-out or problematic components. The goal is to improve the longevity and effectiveness of the artificial hip, allowing patients to regain mobility and alleviate any discomfort resulting from issues with the initial implant.
Minimally invasive hip replacement is a surgical technique that aims to reduce the trauma to surrounding tissues during hip joint replacement surgery. In a traditional hip replacement, a larger incision is made to access the hip joint, often involving cutting through muscles and tendons.
In contrast, minimally invasive hip replacement involves smaller incisions and specialized instruments, allowing the surgeon to work between muscles or through smaller muscle splits rather than cutting through them. Minimally invasive hip replacement can be done with any approach.
The benefits of minimally invasive hip replacement include potentially shorter recovery times, reduced pain, and less muscle damage compared to traditional approaches.
The smaller incisions may lead to less scarring and blood loss, and patients may experience a quicker return to normal activities.
However, not all patients or types of hip conditions are suitable for minimally invasive techniques, and the decision to use this approach depends on factors such as the patient's anatomy, the surgeon's expertise, and the specific characteristics of the hip problem. Dr. Bigby aims to perform the hip replacement through a small but appropriate incision.
If you are experiencing constant hip pain, it is time to get relief from your pain. You can request an appointment with Dr. Ulric Bigby and find out what the best option is for you. Or you can call one of his three locations that is closest to you.
