In a total hip replacement (total hip arthroplasty), the surgeon removes the damaged parts of the hip joint and replaces them with parts usually made of metal, ceramic and very hard plastic. The artificial joint (prosthesis) helps reduce pain and improve function.
Before surgery
- Strengthen the muscles around the hip before surgery by exercising and staying active; this shortens your recovery. Ask your physiotherapist about suitable exercises.
- Avoid herbal medicines and blood thinners.
- Your doctor will prescribe iron supplements to prevent anaemia after the operation.
- Stop all tobacco use, including cigarettes and hookah (water pipe).
- Do stretching exercises to strengthen the muscles around the pelvis; this helps your body and joint recover faster.
After surgery
- Take your medicines on time. Your doctor will also prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection; take them on time and finish the course.
- Keep the incisions clean and dry and change the dressings as your doctor instructs.
- Avoid bathing for the first few days so that the absorbable stitches can close the incisions.
- For a few weeks, depending on your condition, use a cane or walker and avoid putting weight on the operated leg.
- Avoid strenuous sport and physical activity for 6 to 8 weeks; this period varies from person to person.
- Do the exercises your doctor and physiotherapist recommend, correctly.
- To prevent blood clots, get up after the operation and walk with the help of others and crutches.
Tests and consultations needed before surgery
- Laboratory tests: CBC, BUN, Cr, FBS, ESR, CRP, HbA1c, U/A, U/C
- Imaging: Pelvis and hip X-rays, chest X-ray
- Consultations: ECG and internal medicine consultation
