Hip Replacement Specialist

Why would I need a hip replacement?

The orthopedic surgeons at Bluewater Orthopedics perform hip replacements when your hip joint is too damaged to respond to less invasive treatments and your pain severely interferes with your life. 

You may need a hip replacement to address advanced osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. Childhood hip diseases, osteonecrosis, and traumatic injuries can also eventually necessitate a hip replacement.

How should I prepare for a hip replacement?

Your orthopedic surgeon gives you specific preparation instructions during your preoperative consultation. Make sure your team knows about any medications, supplements, or vitamins that you take regularly. They should also know about any allergies or other health conditions. 

You might want a friend or family member to stay with you for a few days after your surgery. Make sure any items you use regularly are easy to reach so you don’t have to bend or crouch to access them. You should also remove any tripping hazards and ask about items to make life easier while you recover. 

What happens during a hip replacement?

While you’re under general anesthesia, your orthopedic surgeon makes an incision near your hip joint. They carefully remove the damaged femoral head and the surface of the acetabulum socket. 

Then, your surgeon attaches a metal stem with a metal or ceramic ball to your femur. Next, they replace the socket lining with a metal surface, securing it with screws or cement. Finally, your surgeon inserts a plastic, ceramic, or metal space between the new ball and socket. 

Advances in medical technology have made hip replacements relatively quick and efficient. Depending on your needs, your surgery may even be an outpatient procedure. 

What should I expect after a hip replacement?

Your surgeon prescribes medicine to manage pain and reduce your risk of infection following surgery. They also provide a rehabilitation plan, which is critical to keeping your recovery on track. You begin almost immediately — many patients are up and out of bed within 24 hours of surgery.

Your surgeon gives you instructions on wound care. You might need to avoid getting your surgery site wet for a couple of days. You may continue to bandage the surgical area to reduce irritation. 

Call Bluewater Orthopedics today or make an appointment online if you have severe hip pain or need an expert orthopedic surgeon to perform a hip replacement.