The Operation of the Century | When to consider a Hip Replacement | The Takeaway
Overview
Arthritis can be debilitating, with around 20 percent of the US population living with it.[1] Although it can be managed, and people with the condition can live relatively normal lives with various conservative treatment options, arthritis sometimes progresses to a point where more intensive interventions are necessary.
Corticosteroid and hyaluronic acid injections administered directly into the areas where joints have worn away are next-in-line therapies that can help many. However, what happens when even these more invasive options cannot provide relief?
In this situation, joint replacement surgeries have become the ultimate champion in arthritis relief. And even though this is the most invasive form of treatment, total hip replacement surgery has become one of the most successful orthopedic procedures out there, boasting a 95 percent success rate![2]
But when is it time to consider this procedure? How risky is it? Is it the last resort?
The Operation of the Century
Since the first total hip replacement surgery was performed in the 1960s, the procedure has revolutionized arthritis treatment for people with the most advanced forms of the disease.
Although attempts at joint replacement have been made since the late 1800s, the “ball and rod” style of prosthesis introduced in the middle of the 20th century that replaces the affected, worn-out hip joint has been a remarkable life-changer for many.
Today, there are more choices regarding the type of implant used to replay ce the natural hip joint, which is usually more customized to the patient’s specific case. And consider this as a testament to its success: today, more than a million hip replacements are performed worldwide, and this number is expected to double in the next two decades.[3]
When to Consider a Hip Replacement
So, the answer to whether one is ready for hip replacement surgery requires several considerations, even before any assessment for eligibility. Are you experiencing any of these symptoms?
· Advanced hip arthritis
· Extreme pain and discomfort that is not sufficiently relieved by medication
· Mobility restrictions that have progressed to the point where it impacts daily tasks and routines
· Any previous hip injury or fracture
· Noticeable physical changes in the hip joint
· Trouble sleeping or remaining in one position for too long
· Limping
Additionally, one should also consider some of the risks that are associated with this highly successful surgery – and although the chances are not common, they are worth knowing and asking your doctor about:
· Nerve damage
· Blood clots post-procedure
· Elevated risk of hip dislocation right after replacement
· Infection
· Slight risk of one leg being shorter than the other post-procedure
Maintaining a healthy weight and being as physically active as possible will reduce the risks of these issues.
The Takeaway
Nothing can replace the medical advice of your doctor or specialist, but having a general awareness of the benefits and potential risks that a hip replacement may bring is helpful if you feel that your arthritis treatments are no longer enough.
If this speaks to you, you can rest assured that this highly advanced procedure with a proven track record of success can help you live a more pain-free life with increased mobility and comfort for a long time.
References:
- Lawrence, R.C., Helmick, C.G., Arnett, F.C., Deyo, R.A., Felson, D.T., Giannini, E.H., Heyse, S.P., Hirsch, R., Hochberg, M.C., Hunder, G.G., Liang, M.H., Pillemer, S.R., Steen, V.D. and Wolfe, F. (1998), Estimates of the prevalence of arthritis and selected musculoskeletal disorders in the United States. Arthritis & Rheumatism, 41: 778-799. https://doi.org/10.1002/1529-0131(199805)41:5<778::AID-ART4>3.0.CO;2-V
- Evans, J. T., Evans, J. P., Walker, R. W., Blom, A. W., Whitehouse, M. R., & Sayers, A. (2019). How long does a hip replacement last? A systematic review and meta-analysis of case series and national registry reports with more than 15 years of follow-up. Lancet (London, England), 393(10172), 647–654. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(18)31665-9
- Pivec, R., Johnson, A. J., Mears, S. C., & Mont, M. A. (2012). Hip arthroplasty. Lancet (London, England), 380(9855), 1768–1777. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(12)60607-2
