Hip FAQ

What is hip arthroplasty?

A hip arthroplasty is a replacement of damaged or arthritic surfaces of the hip joint with materials to restore the integrity of the joint. Most often materials are made of metals and plastic.

What are the indications for this procedure?

The main indications are to relieve pain caused by arthritis, correct deformity, and restore range of motion and function. More specifically, candidates for hip replacements have severe degenerative changes on the hip x-rays and failure of nonoperative treatment to relieve their pain.

What are the causes of osteo-arthritis in the hip that progresses to a total hip replacement?

Primary osteoarthritis
History of trauma
Rheumatoid arthritis
Avascular necrosis
Other inflammatory arthritis

There is no proof that other factors such as obesity, occupational hazards, or a long history of jogging are risk factors for a hip replacement.

How successful are these operations?

At 1 year, approximately 95% of patients can expect a good to excellent clinical result, with minimal to no pain, the ability to walk more than 1 mile, increased range of motion, as well as patient satisfaction with the procedure.

Can patients return to playing sports after hip replacement surgery?

Most patients can return to low-impact sports, such as golf, doubles tennis, bowling, walking, and use such exercise machines as stationary cycle and cross-country ski simulators.

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