Hip replacement operations are done routinely today. Because hip replacement surgery is so common, some people wonder if it is considered major surgery. In this video, Dr. Dan Albright of Raleigh Orthopedics, answers this question and discusses what factors will determine recovery time.
Transcript of video:
Is hip replacement surgery a major operation?
The answer is yes.
A total hip replacement takes about an hour to do, but what about hip surgery recovery time? The recovery time for the patient is about three months. Younger patients and athletes may have a shorter recovery time.
It's a major operation and sometimes doctors gloss over that. Patients should prepare for this surgery by losing some weight, working out in a pool with a therapist, or working out on a stationary bike.
This surgery comes with some risks. There is a risk of a blood clot and a risk of a post-surgery dislocation, but the risks are small.
Patients should not go into hip replacement surgery thinking it is going to be quick and they will be back at work in three days. A lot of people need to stay away from work for the minimum recovery time of a few weeks to a month or two. The timing depends on who you are and your job.
Everyone is an individual, and each person has a different medical history, and different body type. All those factors will determine the recovery time.
For more information on hip replacement surgery, contact Dr. Dan Albright at 919-863-6808.
