Total Hip Replacement

Hip Replacement is a common orthopaedic procedure and is used primarily to treat hip arthritis and cartilage damage of all causes. The Surgery involves removal of arthritic bone surfaces and replacement with metal and plastic/ceramic leading to improved pain and function in the large majority of patients.

Hip Replacement is a major surgery, however, advances in techniques and implants have led to successful outcomes in around 90% of patients who undergo Hip Replacement surgery. 

Damage to the Hip that is likely to benefit from Hip Replacement surgery is usually diagnosed both clinically, with pain, stiffness and with x-rays. Occasionally an MRI may assist in the diagnosis of Hip Arthritis.

Because a Hip Replacement is a mechanical device it is subject to wear over time and Hip Replacement is still a procedure that is used for the end stage of arthritis when other treatments have failed. Appropriate patient selection is also important, and your surgeon will work with you to improve any conditions which may make you a higher risk of not obtaining the desired outcome post-surgery.

Patients undergoing Hip replacement surgery will be directed to have appropriate imaging, blood tests and other pre-surgical investigations as required. Blood transfusion post-surgery is occasionally needed.

The goals of Hip replacement surgery are to reduce pain, increase mobility and function and to restore alignment to limbs with preoperative deformity.