Expected Outcomes After a Hip Replacement Procedure

October 31, 2013 robot Health

One of the most frequently performed and successful orthopedic procedures is hip replacement surgery, health survey shows. Candidates for hip replacement surgery are men and women who have diseased hips that causes pain and immobility, disrupting day-to-day activities and are not responding well to treatment, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS). This major surgical procedure entails the patient to be under general anesthesia as the surgeon cuts out the diseased part of the joint and inserts the new one. Techniques used in this surgical procedure are improved by orthopedic experts to allow faster recovery for patients.

Shortly after the operation, the patient will learn how to use the new hip but may still have limited movement. Ti speed up the recovery process, physical therapists will teach the patient several joint strengthening exercises. Following these exercises diligently will help patients get their mobility back and strengthen their new hip. The full weight of the patient may not be supported by the new hip during the first few weeks, hence, it is important to use walking aids at first. Therapy will help patients slowly ease their weight in the operated leg and eventually they will not need to use any additional support.

It is also important to prepare the home before the operation to make the recovery easier. To make the house ready for the recovery period, health care providers may be consulted. Using the stairs may be difficult for the first few weeks, so patients are advised to stay in a room near the bathroom or in the lower floor. There are certain height specifications for commodes, chairs and beds to prevent hip dislocation. Living alone after the operation may be difficult, thus it will be more convenient to have someone around even just for the first few weeks following the procedure. Keeping objects that are frequently used in arm’s reach will also prevent dislocation.

Full recovery may be anticipated within three to six months and it varies with each person. Rehabilitation, type of procedure and the person’s overall health all affect the recovery rate. Failure of hip implants have not put asunder the viability of hip replacement surgery and patients may still consider it as a viable option. Some patients have even read about the $3 billion estimated settlement for all ASR lawsuits filed by plaintiffs.

URL References:

niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Hip_Replacement/#7

mayoclinic.com/health/hip-replacement/MY00235/DSECTION=what-you-can-expect

orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00356

nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/patientinstructions/000167.htm

sutterhealth.org/orthopedics/hip/preparing-for-hip-replacement.html#yourhome

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