Surprising Facts of Hip Replacement Surgery

Hip replacement is regarded as one of the safest surgeries in the field of medical procedures. According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, hip replacement surgery has proven to change the lives of older people and those who suffer hip injuries. Here are some hip replacement details you should know, in case you have this surgery in your future.

 

 

Hip replacement operation alleviates strain and promotes fluidity of joints. It allows a person to walk freely without any restrictions. Older people are happier after their hip replacement in terms of body control and ease of mobility. On the other hand, people of all ages, no matter young or aged who have a history of arthritis, hip traumas, and sports injuries, find pain relief with hip replacement surgery.

 

 

Before surgery, surgeons advise that the patient should ideally be at the optimal body mass index. Extra body weight translates to increased strain on the newly repaired hip joint. Moreover, precautions have to be taken post-surgery while at home. Any object in the household that can lead to shock, injury, or accidental trips should be replaced with safer alternatives. Bathing and toilet habits should be adjusted until the completion of the recovery period.

 

 

The latest hip replacement procedures and availability of professionally trained surgeons ensure the least invasiveness during a successful hip operation.  The least invasive approaches cause less trauma to the hip area and result in a quicker recovery.

 

 

Usually, the recovery requires approximately five to six weeks. However, attentive care is required during this period to avoid any infections or injuries. After the six weeks, most people can return to work, but they still may need to handle their hip joint with care. The entire rehabilitation period after hip replacement surgery can last up to a year.

 

 

Walking after hip surgery is the first recovery step. Although you may feel the need for the help of a person or walker for some time, patients are most likely to walk on their own after 24 hours.

 

 

Most health insurance companies cover hip replacement surgery. Check with your insurance before surgery.  It is crucial to understand if rehabilitation, visiting nurse services, follow-up visits with the surgeon are covered, and any restrictions.

 

 

Thanks to the non-degradable mechanical implants, patients needn't worry about wearing out the newly installed hip. The life span of the artificial hip will depend on the body weight and future injuries to the hip region, but the average lifespan is 20 years.

 

For more information on hip replacement surgery, contact Dr. Dan Albright. Call to schedule an appointment.