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Total Hip Replacement in Delhi
Total Hip Replacement (THR), also called hip arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure in which the damaged parts of the hip joint are removed and replaced with artificial components. It is primarily performed to relieve severe pain, restore mobility, and improve the overall function of the hip joint in patients suffering from conditions such as advanced arthritis, hip fractures, or other degenerative joint diseases.
Total Hip Replacement Procedure
The hip joint is a ball-and-socket joint, where the ball (femoral head) at the top of the thigh bone fits into a socket (acetabulum) in the pelvis. In hip replacement surgery:
- An incision is made near the hip to access the joint.
- The damaged femoral head is removed and replaced with a metal stem that is inserted into the thigh bone. A metal or ceramic ball is then placed on top of this stem.
- The damaged cartilage and bone in the socket are cleaned out, and a metal socket is implanted.
- A plastic, ceramic, or metal spacer is inserted between the new ball and socket to allow smooth, pain-free movement.
This artificial joint mimics the natural motion of the hip and can significantly reduce pain, enhance joint function, and improve quality of life.
When is Hip Replacement Needed?
Total hip replacement is recommended when hip joint damage severely affects a patient’s quality of life and non-surgical treatments are no longer effective. You may be a candidate if you experience:
- Persistent hip or groin pain during rest or activity
- Difficulty walking, bending, or standing up from a seated position
- Stiffness in the hip that limits motion
- Swelling or tenderness that doesn’t improve with medication or therapy
- Reduced ability to perform daily activities
Common conditions leading to hip replacement include:
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Avascular necrosis (loss of blood supply to the hip bone)
- Post-traumatic arthritis following an injury or fracture
- Hip dysplasia or congenital deformities
Diagnosis and Evaluation
Before recommending surgery, a complete assessment is done, which includes:
- Medical History: To understand the duration, intensity, and impact of pain.
- Physical Examination: To evaluate strength, flexibility, and hip joint function.
- Imaging: X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to assess joint damage and guide treatment planning.
- Lifestyle Assessment: Understanding how the condition affects mobility, independence, and daily tasks.
Risks and Complications
As with any major surgery, total hip replacement carries certain risks. While complications are uncommon, they may include:
- Infection around the surgical site or implant
- Blood clots in the legs or lungs
- Dislocation of the new joint
- Wear or loosening of the implant over time
- Nerve or blood vessel injury
- Leg length discrepancy
- Reaction to anesthesia
- Bone fractures during surgery
Your surgeon will explain these risks in detail and take preventive steps to ensure the safest outcome.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery after total hip replacement is a structured process focused on restoring strength, flexibility, and independence:
- Most patients stay in the hospital for 2–3 days post-surgery.
- Physical therapy begins shortly after surgery to help regain movement and prevent stiffness.
- Rehabilitation continues at home or in a physiotherapy center, focusing on balance, walking, and strengthening the hip muscles.
- Assistive devices like crutches or walkers are often used for a few weeks.
- Full recovery can take around 3–6 months, depending on age, health, and commitment to rehab.
Regular follow-ups are important to monitor healing, adjust activity levels, and ensure the implant is functioning well.
Total Hip Replacement is a life-changing surgery for individuals with chronic hip pain and mobility issues. With advancements in surgical techniques and implant technology, patients can expect long-lasting relief, improved joint function, and a return to normal activities.
If you or a loved one is struggling with hip pain, schedule a consultation with Dr. Naresh Agarwal, trusted Orthopedic Surgeon in Delhi, to explore the best treatment options for your condition.
If a person needs treatment, your healthcare provider may recommend: