slide 1: Hip Joint Replacement
Hip Replacement
Dr Ravi Prajapati is one of the leading Joint Replacement Surgeon practicing in
Ahmedabad. He completed his M.B.B.S from Smt. N.H.L Municipal Medical College V.S
Hospital Ahmedabad. Afterwards post graduation in Orthopaedics was gained from
Dr.D.Y.Patil Hospital and Research Center -Navi Mumbai. He underwent speciality training
in lower limb arthroplasty-Joint replacement surgery of Hips and Knees at the prestigious
Deenanath Mangeshkar Super Speciality Hospital Pune. He worked and trained with Dr
Hemant Wakankar and Dr Mahesh Kulkarni.
slide 2: Total Hip Joint Replacement Surgery
A total hip joint replacement is an operation to remove a severely impaired hip joint and
replace it with an artificial joint prosthesis. The aim of the surgery is to relieve pain and
restore function to the joint.
There have been concerns about some metal-on-metal hip prostheses wearing out
sooner than anticipated. People who have had a hip replacement and have concerns or
are experiencing pain or discomfort should see their doctor. Despite these concerns hip
replacement is generally a safe and successful procedure that reduces pain and improves
mobility.
Introduction
In a healthy hip smooth cartilage covers the ends of the femur thighbone as well as
the socket known as the acetabulum in the pelvis into which the ball end of the femur
fits. The cartilage acts as a cushion and allows the ball to glide easily inside the socket.
The surrounding muscles support the joint allowing it to move freely.
Other conditions that can damage the hip joint to the extent that it requires replacement
include rheumatoid arthritis inflammatory arthritis osteonecrosis where poor blood
supply to the ball portion of the hip causes it to weaken and deform and hip fractures
particularly in the elderly.
People who might benefit from hip replacement surgery include those who have hip
pain and/or stiffness that:
Limits everyday activities such as walking or bending
Interferes with sleep
Persists despite anti-inflammatory/pain medication physical therapy or walking
supports.
The surgery
A Hip Replacement operation can be performed using either local or general anaesthetic.
This will be discussed with the anaesthetist prior to surgery and a decision made as to
which anaesthetic is appropriate.
The surgery typically takes up to 2 hours to complete. The artificial hip joint prosthesis
consists of a ball and stem the femoral component and a socket the acetabular
component. There are many different types of prosthesis made of various metals eg:
stainless steel chrome titanium ceramics plastic or a combination of these. The two
components of the prosthesis fit together to form a smooth joint. Some prostheses are
“cemented” into place using special acrylic bone cement. Others do not require cement
and rely on bone growing around the prosthesis to anchor them into place.
slide 3: Surgery begins with an incision being made along the side of the hip joint that is to be
replaced. The muscles that support the hip joint are detached and the damaged ball of
the hip joint is cut from the top of the femur. The femoral component of the prosthesis is
inserted into the femur and the ace tabular component of the prosthesis is inserted into
the prepared socket area in the pelvic bone. The artificial ball and socket are then fitted
together and the surgeon reattaches the muscles to the top of the femur. Drainage
tubes may be inserted to drain any fluid and/or blood from the new joint and the incision
is then closed.
Antibiotics are usually given during and after the operation to prevent the development
of infection in the new joint. A blood transfusion may also be required. This will be
discussed by the surgeon prior to surgery.
There is an increased risk of developing blood clots in the legs after hip replacement
surgery. Preventative measures may include:
Early mobilisation: Sitting up and even trying to walk with crutches or a walker
soon after surgery will be encouraged
Wearing elastic compression stockings or inflatable leg coverings compression
boots to help keep blood from pooling in the leg veins which reduces the risk of
clots forming
Blood-thinning medication: Injected or oral blood-thinning drugs may be given
after surgery.
Recovery
After surgery nursing staff will closely monitor blood pressure heart rate breathing rate
and oxygen levels. They will also monitor blood circulation in the leg involved.
After surgery the healthcare team will work together to set movement guidelines and
exercises that will assist with recovery. The success of the surgery depends on following
these instructions while in hospital and carrying out the prescribed exercises when at
home. In general the following guidelines may be given for recovery when at home:
Don’t cross the legs including the ankles
Don’t bend down low
Avoid lifting heavy objects
Avoid forceful or jarring movement of the hip
Avoid twisting movements of the hip
Don’t lie on the operated side
Always have a pillow between the legs when lying on the un-operated side
Don’t stand for long periods
Sit in a firm chair with arms to assist getting in and out of the chair
slide 4: Treat scratches and cuts promptly to decrease the chance of infection affecting
the new joint
Follow up
It is usual to see the surgeon 2 to 6 weeks after surgery to assess recovery.
Take Appointment
Our Hospital Location
17-26 3rd Floor Amrapali Axiom Nr. Bopal Junction Ambli Ahmedabad - 380058
Contact Number: +91 97379 73300
Email Address: drraviprajapatigmail.com
Website: www.drraviprajapati.com