The natural hip works as a ball-and-socket arrangement. When total hip joint replacement is called for, the diseased ball and socket are replaced by metal components, which are themselves then fused by the surgeon into the femur bone. The newly-placed metal components are called a prosthesis.
If you are wondering what to expect after hip replacement surgery, here is an overview of the key things you should know:
Risks
There are some risks associated with hip replacement surgery, the most serious of which is blood clots in the legs. Such blood clots could travel to the lungs, leading to a pulmonary embolism. Other risks include:
* difficulty urinating
* infection
* bone fracture
* scarring
* limited hip motion
Post-Op & Recovery
After a 2-4 hour procedure, you will be under observation in a recovery room.
In the days after surgery, you will be given intravenous fluids in order to maintain your electrolytes. Pain can be administered by you using a hand-operated pump. Stockings or hose are worn to encourage circulation. Active exercise is highly encouraged. This helps mobilize blood and prevent blood clots.
Supportive devices such as a walker or crutches are used during walking for the weeks or even months after surgery while the body adjusts to the new, prosthetic hip.
Physical therapy is also a very important part of the rehabilitation process after hip replacement surgery, often beginning on Day 1 after surgery with simple chair exercises.
Over time, stepping, walking and climbing are incorporated into the rehabilitation routine. This routine serves to prevent contractures (which can impede the mobility around the joint) and to strengthen the muscles around the hip joint through controlled exercises.
Get surgery recovery advice after hip replacement surgery at: http://www.SurgeryCompanion.info.
