Should You Have Hip Replacement? Adrian MI
Should You Have Hip Replacement?
Also known as hip arthroplasty, hip replacement surgery can be beneficial to those with severe hip pain, helping to relieve symptoms and provide greater range of movement. However, the procedure isn't without its risks. Prospective patients should talk to their doctors and do their own research before deciding to proceed. The following is a guide to help weigh the risks and rewards of hip replacement surgery.
Who Gets Hip Replacement Surgery?
In 2005, more than 230,000 hip replacements were performed in the United States, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. The procedure is typically indicated for people with severe hip damage and is usually considered only after other therapies, such as medication, have failed.
Most people who need hip replacement surgery suffer from osteoarthritis, but some may require hip replacement after a serious injury, such as a fall or car accident. Hip replacement surgeries are most common in those 65 and older; however, younger adults may require the procedure after experiencing a sports injury or severe accident.
You may be a candidate for hip surgery, if you regularly experience any of the following problems:
- Pain that medications don't relieve;
- Trouble standing and/or walking;
- Trouble walking up or down stairs; or
- Pain that prevents you from sleeping at night.
What Happens During Hip Replacement?
The surgery involves replacing the "ball" of your hip with a prosthesis. The prosthetic parts are designed to mimic the natural movements of the hip joint. Artificial hip joints come in a variety of sizes to fit any individual, so the surgeon will chose the joint that's best for the patient. The prosthesis is composed of several different materials designed to make it biocompatible or accepted by the body...
