Hip Replacement

We keep the South Sound moving with hip replacements

Hip pain is a common problem for middle-aged and elderly Americans, and arthritis is the most common cause. If arthritis-related hip pain interferes with your quality of life, your doctor will first recommend conservative treatments such as medications and cortisone injections. Eventually, hip replacement surgery may be your best option

What is hip replacement?

The hip implant is made up of a number of components. The “ball” is placed on a stem that fits into your femur (thigh bone). The socket of your pelvis that holds the ball is resurfaced with a special plastic cup to replace cartilage that has worn away over the years. Hip replacement can eliminate pain and allow you to move more easily with less discomfort.

Are there complications with hip replacement?

As with any surgery, there is a risk of complications after having hip replacement. However, there are steps to take in order to help decrease the risk. To reduce the risk of infection, we take special precautionary measures in the operating room and use powerful antibiotics. Our personnel include specially trained and experienced nurses and technicians.

Will I experience pain after hip replacement?

Thanks to advances in medication technology, pain decreases quickly for most patients. Any temporary discomfort after surgery does not compare to the pain of arthritis endured by many people in the months and years before surgery. And because hip replacement patients are not “sick,” you will not be treated as if you are. You will wear casual clothing after surgery, not hospital gowns. You’ll also join other joint replacement patients for meals, television and games.

Will my insurance plan cover the cost of hip replacement?

Most insurance plans cover hip replacement, but you should check with your health plan to determine the extent of your coverage. As Medicare-participating physicians, our doctors accept the amount Medicare approves for hip replacement. We will bill Medicare and your supplemental insurance company (if applicable) for the 20 percent portion of the surgeon’s fee that is approved by Medicare but paid by your supplemental insurance plan. The hospital also accepts Medicare assignment.

Is there an alternative to hip replacement?

Hip replacement is only recommended after careful diagnosis of your joint problem. It is not likely that anti-inflammatory drugs or cortisone injections will give you the same long-term relief that hip replacement will. A new procedure called hip resurfacing may be an option. Your doctor will be able to discuss your particular situation.

Should my hip replacement be cemented?

Hip replacements are successfully performed both with cemented and un-cemented components. Your surgeon will discuss which technique is best for you.

How long is the hospital stay after hip replacement?

While each individual case is different, the average hospital stay for a hip replacement is around three to four days.

How long is recovery after hip replacement?

Recovery varies with each person. You will use a walker or crutches for approximately four weeks after the operation. You can drive a car in six weeks. Most people gradually increase their activities and may begin golfing, walking, swimming, biking, shuffleboard or bowling within 12 weeks. You will need to check with your doctor about more active sports. Some patients who live alone may require a short stay at a rehab center or extended care facility for a few days after they leave the hospital, depending on how you progress in the hospital.

What is the first step?

Only an orthopedic surgeon can determine whether a hip replacement is an appropriate course of treatment. There are potential risks, and recovery takes time. The performance of the new joint depends on weight, activity level, age and other factors. These need to be discussed with your doctor. To find an orthopedic physician who specializes in hip replacement please use our Find a Doctor tool.

Watch a video of a hip replacement.