Hip Replacement Surgery
Total Hip Arthroplasty | Kavya Hospitals, Guntur
What is Hip Replacement Surgery?
Hip replacement (total hip arthroplasty) involves removing the damaged femoral head and acetabulum and replacing them with prosthetic components. The new hip consists of a metal stem, ball, and socket liner—often ceramic or polyethylene—designed to restore pain-free hip function.
Symptoms Indicating Need for Surgery
- Persistent hip pain that limits walking or standing
- Stiffness that reduces range of motion
- Pain in the groin, thigh, or buttock
- Difficulty with daily activities (dressing, climbing stairs)
- Pain at rest or night
- Hip fracture or avascular necrosis
When to See a Doctor
Consult an orthopedic surgeon if hip pain affects mobility, persists despite medication and physiotherapy, or if you have a hip fracture. Early evaluation helps plan the best treatment approach.
Treatment Options
- Conservative: Physical therapy, NSAIDs, steroid injections, activity modification
- Total Hip Replacement: For severe arthritis or hip fractures
- Partial (Hemiarthroplasty): For certain femoral neck fractures
Procedure Overview
The surgery is done under spinal or general anesthesia. The surgeon accesses the hip, removes the damaged femoral head and acetabular cartilage, and implants the prosthesis. Various approaches (posterior, anterior) may be used. The procedure typically takes 1-2 hours.
Recovery Timeline
- Day 1: Walking with walker, pain management
- Week 1-2: Discharge home, physiotherapy
- Week 6: Transition to cane, light activities
- 3-6 months: Full recovery with strengthening
Frequently Asked Questions
What is hip replacement surgery?
Hip replacement replaces the damaged hip joint with artificial implants—a metal stem and ball, and a socket liner—to restore pain-free movement.
When is hip replacement needed?
For severe osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, avascular necrosis, or hip fractures when conservative treatments fail to provide relief.
How long is recovery?
Most patients walk with support within 24 hours. Full recovery typically takes 3-6 months with consistent physiotherapy.
How long do hip replacements last?
Modern hip replacements last 15-20+ years in most patients with normal activity levels.
Book a Consultation
Consult Dr. Karthik Kota for hip replacement evaluation