Hip Replacement

The hip is one of the largest weight-bearing joints in the body. When its cartilage wears away, pain starts in the groin and the front of the thigh and sometimes spreads to the knee. Putting on socks, getting into a car or tying shoes becomes difficult. A hip replacement replaces the badly damaged joint with an artificial one to reduce pain and restore movement.

What is a hip replacement?

The hip is a ball-and-socket joint between the ball-shaped head of the thigh bone and the socket (acetabulum) in the pelvis. In a total hip replacement, both the socket and the head of the thigh bone are renewed: a cup is placed in the pelvis, a stem inside the thigh bone and a new head on top of the stem. In some hip fractures only the thigh side is replaced; this is called a partial hip replacement (hemiarthroplasty).

Implants can be fixed to bone with or without cement. The choice depends on age, bone quality and the condition of the joint.

Who needs a hip replacement?

• Advanced hip osteoarthritis
• Avascular necrosis, where the blood supply to the femoral head is lost
• Joint damage caused by developmental hip dysplasia
• Rheumatoid arthritis and similar inflammatory joint diseases
• Some femoral neck fractures in older people
• Joint damage after old fractures or infections

The decision takes into account how much the pain limits daily life, how well non-surgical treatment has worked and what imaging shows.

How is the operation done?

The operation is usually performed under spinal anaesthesia and most often takes 1-2 hours. The hip is approached from the side or back, or from the front in suitable patients. The damaged joint surfaces are removed, the socket and the thigh canal are prepared, and the implants are fitted. Leg length, range of motion and stability are then checked.

Recovery

Most patients stand up with a walker on the day of surgery or the next day. The hospital stay is usually a few days.

• First weeks: Walking with a walker or crutches, following the positions taught to reduce the risk of dislocation, daily exercises
• Weeks 4-6: Less support, return to most daily tasks
• Weeks 6-12: Driving, work and social life (with your surgeon’s approval)
• After month 3: Walking, swimming and cycling become regular

In the first months you may need to avoid bending the hip too far or crossing your legs. These precautions are explained individually, depending on the surgical approach.

Possible risks

Infection, blood clots, dislocation, a difference in leg length, nerve or blood vessel injury and, in the long term, loosening are the possible risks of hip replacement. Clot-preventing medication, early movement, following the advice on positions and regular follow-up reduce these risks.

Frequently asked questions

When will I walk after a hip replacement?

Most patients start walking with support on the day of surgery or the next day. Walking without support usually becomes possible within a few weeks.

How long does a hip replacement last?

Modern hip implants work well for many years in most patients. Their lifespan depends on factors such as activity level, weight and bone quality. Regular check-ups help detect problems early.

Will my leg length change?

Leg length is measured carefully during surgery and equalised as closely as possible. Small differences may remain in some patients and can usually be balanced with an insole.

Which movements should I avoid after surgery?

In the first months, bending the hip deeply, crossing the legs and sitting in low chairs may be restricted. You will be told which movements to watch for, depending on the surgical approach.

The information on this page is general and does not replace an examination. An examination is needed to decide which treatment suits you.