Hip Replacement Surgery

In recent years, hip replacement surgery has become less invasive, and the artificial bearings in prosthetic hip joints are more wear-resistant. Although a routine operation, hip replacement surgery still requires careful decision-making with your surgeon.

Photo of hip replacement surgery

What is Hip Replacement Surgery?

Hip replacement surgery is a procedure in which your hip joint is replaced by a prosthetic implant. You may also hear the term total hip arthroplasty. Surgeons use the word “arthroplasty” to mean replacement. The word “total” means that both the ball and socket part of the hip are replaced. Therefore, “total hip arthroplasty” means a total hip replacement. Learn more about hip replacement surgery.

The most common reason for hip replacement surgery is arthritis. The procedure might also help in the case of injuries or fractures that damage the hip. If your hip cartilage is damaged, you might need hip replacement surgery to relieve your pain. The decision to have elective surgery should be made after careful thought and deliberation.

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How Long Does it Take to Recover From Hip Replacement Surgery?

Recovery time varies from one patient to another. The average hospital stay is one or two days, although MU Health Care does offer an outpatient joint replacement procedure for those who qualify.

The day after your surgery, you will be helped into a chair and you may be able to walk limited distances. Your activity will increase with each day that follows. Most people return to their own place of residence after a hip replacement. Some elderly or debilitated patients may need to go to a nursing home to recuperate. Learn more about recovery.

Learn More About Hip Replacement Surgery

Click on the links below to read more about the following topics related to hip replacement surgery, and call us to discuss outpatient hip replacement options.

Anatomy of the hip. Learn about how the hip works.
Arthritis and the hip joint. Read about how arthritis affects the hip.
Treating hip arthritis. Learn about how specialists can treat and manage arthritis.
About hip replacement. Read about hip replacement surgery.
Leg length after hip replacement. Find out more about discrepancies in leg length after hip surgery.
Types of hip surgery. Learn about some of the most common types of hip procedures.
Hip parts and materials. Get informed about the parts and materials used in modern hip surgery.
Hip surgery techniques. Read about the most common techniques used in hip surgery today.
Before hip surgery. Find out how to be prepared for your hip surgery.
During hip surgery. Find out what to expect on the day of your procedure.
After hip surgery. Learn about recovery from hip surgery, and what you can realistically expect.
Life with an artificial hip. Read about what may be different – as well as the same – for life after a hip replacement.
Successful hip surgery. Get pointers on setting yourself up for a successful hip procedure.