Total hip replacement, also known as total hip arthroplasty, involves the removal of the damaged bone and cartilage and replacing them with prosthetic components. This process is usually the one recommended if hip pain limits movement and mobility, continues even when resting, and when one experiences no pain relief from anti-inflammatory drugs or physical therapy.
The Replacement Procedure
The process starts with the removal of the damaged femoral head, which is replaced with a metal stem that is fitted into the hollow center of the femur. To ensure the femoral stem stays in place, it is either press-fit or cemented into the bone. A ceramic or metallic ball is then placed on top of the femoral stem in place of the removed femoral head.
Similarly, the damaged cartilage surface of the socket also known as acetabulum is removed. It is also replaced with a metal prosthetic. Cement or screws are used to hold the metal socket in place. A metal spacer is then placed between the metal ball and socket to enhance gliding. Plastic or ceramic spacers can also be used.
Common Causes of Chronic Hip Pain
The number one cause for chronic hip pain is arthritis — rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis.
• Rheumatoid arthritis- this is a disease that causes the synovial fluid to thicken and become inflamed. When the inflammation becomes chronic, the cartilage gets damaged, causing pain and stiffness.
• Osteoarthritis – with age, the cartilage wears off, causing the bones to rub against each other. This results in pain and stiffness. Osteoarthritis mostly affects individuals who are 50 years of age and above.
• Post-traumatic arthritis – this disease develops as a result of a hip injury. In this case, the cartilage is damaged, thus causes hip pain and stiffness.
• Osteonecrosis – this is also caused as a result of a hip injury such as a fracture. Here, the injury limits the amount of blood reaching the femoral head. For that reason, the surface of the bone collapses and arthritis may develop. This condition may also develop as a result of diseases such as clotting disorders.
• Childhood hip disease – this occurs in infants and children and may cause arthritis in the future. This happens if the hip fails to grow normally, thus affecting the joint surfaces.
FAQs
What Is the Difference between Partial Hip Replacement and Total Hip Replacement?
In a partial hip replacement, only partial replacement is conducted. For this surgery, only the femoral head is replaced. It is mostly conducted in older patients with fractured hip. As for a total hip replacement, both the femoral head and the socket are replaced.
What Evaluations Are Conducted Ahead of Total Hip Replacement?
Before orthopedic surgeons recommend this procedure, they will check your medical history in regards to your hip pain and conduct physical examinations to assess your hip alignment, mobility, and strength. X-rays and MRI scans will also be required.
Who Are the Candidates for Total Hip Replacement?
Total hip replacement in Dallas TX does not restrict candidates regarding age or weight. Young and old patients can get this surgery after recommendations by an orthopedic surgeon. The surgeon is more interested in the pain and disability caused by the hip pain when conducting evaluations.
For total hip replacement in Dallas TX, contact Plano Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center for evaluation and treatment of orthopedic injuries. Whether injuries are on the wrist, hand, shoulder, knee, back, or any other joint, our team of experienced orthopedic surgeons will be glad to assist you.
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To schedule an appointment with one our specialists, contact our scheduling department at 972-250-5700 or request an appointment online.
POSMC is a full-service medical facility specializing in the evaluation and treatment of orthopedic injuries. The practice is led by a group of 12 board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons and a physical medicine and rehabilitation physician. Contact us today!