Arthritis Zone
Procedures for Joint Replacement Surgery (Hip)
There are currently many options in orthopedic (bone) surgery
for people with arthritis. Joint replacement is the most common
option. According to the National Joint Replacement Foundation, (NJRF)
over 435,000 Americans underwent this procedure last year. These
numbers have boosted joint replacement to one of the most successful
medical discoveries and the absolute most significant surgery in the
field of arthritis treatment.
Joint replacement is the process of removing one’s entire joint as well
as any damaged tissue and replacing it with a metal prosthesis.
This prosthesis provides the patient with much need relief from
pain. This surgery most effective on the weight bearing joints
such as the knees, hips, and ankles, however, it has been used for all
joints with successful results.
Hip replacement surgery consists of removing the entire hip joint and
replacing it with artificial components. These components
function in the same manner as the natural hip, with the same type of
motion. When a patient elects to undergo hip replacement surgery, they
have an option to use their own blood. There is a great loss of
blood during the procedure, and patients are prepared for this ahead of
time. They can elect to have their own blood taken and stored
ahead of time so that when they need a transfusion, they can use blood
from their own body, eliminating many of the risks associated with
transfusions.
This particular procedure begins with an initial incision. The surgeon
will then proceed to remove the entire hip joint, including the ball,
socket, and top of the femur. Once the joint, and all damaged
tissue is removed, a metal cup is adhered to the pelvic bone. Then, a
metal stem is inserted into the femur; leaving a portion exposed at the
end for several inches. The doctors place a ball on the end of
the exposed portion of the metal rod, and all of the exposed parts are
lined with another antifriction material. The hip is reassembled,
placing the ball joint into the socket and the incision is then closed.
Fusion Arthrodesis, or bone fusion, is another optional procedure where
the bones are fused together in order to prevent them from moving
independently. This can be done two ways:
1. Bone Grafting is the method of stimulating fusion between two bones
by placing a small piece of bone, from another region of the body, in
between. This small piece of bone encourages growth for the surrounding
bones, thus fusing them in place.
2. Implantation of a metal or ceramic piece, which is adhered to each
of the two bones, using either screws or a special glue, thus
preventing movement of the bones. Fusion is a common procedure and is
used in conjunction with joint replacement surgery, which is more
extreme of a procedure then bone fusion alone.
During a procedure called Ostheo, doctors can evaluate the injured
tissue and eliminate any loose material with the use of instruments
that are inserted into the joint through little incisions in the skin.
During the procedure, the surgeon can observe any damage to the joint
on a closed-circuit television, and further remove any loose growths
that could be the origin of pain. This sort of surgery can often be
executed on an outpatient basis, and typically involves a shorter
recovery stage than open/inpatient surgery.
Rehabilitation times for joint replacement surgery vary from one person
to the next. However, the average person has been shown to regain
most functions within three weeks. A positive attitude can help to
facilitate recovery. It is important for patients to participate
in this by reassuring themselves as well as seeking support from
support groups, family, and friends.
Regardless of they type of surgery recommended, most people recommend
getting at least one other opinion before proceeding. In addition,
check out books, conduct your own online research, ask questions
through health chat rooms, call your own local providers and learn all
you can about your health condition. And if you do decide upon surgery,
look and plan ahead, too. Will you need time off work? Someone to help
around the house? Someone to run errands? Line up help with neighbors,
friends, church members, family, co-workers and local services to pick
up groceries, bring in the mail, clean house and basically keep things
running in the interim. In short, take charge and reach out.
Arthritic
Prevention and Self Care
Home Page
This information is not presented by a medical practitioner and is for educational and informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read.