As we age our bones become more fragile, just as a matter of nature. Hip issues, especially in the elderly are common. Hip problems like fractures, breaks, or arthritis can be extremely painful and can inhibit daily life. When necessary, the trained surgeons at The Orthopaedic Center Tulsa may perform a hip replacement to relieve patients of pain and allow them to get back to normal activities. Before having a hip replacement, there are a few questions to ask your orthopedist about the upcoming procedure.
Will this be a partial or total hip replacement?
Depending on a patient’s condition and need for a hip replacement, the replacement may be partial or total. A partial hip replacement is usually performed when an injury has damaged the area. The damaged area is repaired, and usually just the ball of the hip is replaced.
In a total hip replacement procedure, both the ball and the socket of the hip are replaced. This procedure is performed when an injury creates extensive damage, when degenerative arthritis wears down the area, or when another disease or condition renders the total hip dysfunctional.
Can Hip Replacement Surgery be minimally invasive?
Having even just the ball of the hip replaced requires invasive surgery. At the Orthopaedic Center, our Tulsa orthopedic surgeon specializes in performing minimally invasive hip replacements.
The specialized, advanced procedure is called The Direct Anterior Approach and leaves just a small scar that is only a few inches long. While not always feasible, this minimally invasive procedure tends to be favorable because it requires less recovery time, as it does less damage to the muscle and tissue surrounding the hip.
What prosthetic materials will be used?
A variety of types of prosthetic materials are used for hip replacements, and each type of prosthetic has its own benefits and disadvantages. Examples of prosthetic materials include metals, plastics, and synthetics. Patients should always find out about the materials that are put into their bodies as well as the effects the materials are known to have.
What is the recovery process?
It is vital that patients ask for details about the recovery process after a hip replacement, so they can be prepared. Questions concerning the following aspects of recovery should always be asked:
- Healing time
- Limitations after the surgery
- Special diet and mobile considerations
- Recommended clothing and compression garments
- Physical therapy
- Follow-up procedures and appointments
Have Questions about Hip Replacement Surgery? Contact The Orthopaedic Center in Tulsa
You can ask these questions and many others by calling The Orthopaedic Center at 918-582-6800. Our specialists can help you make a well-informed decision about hip replacement surgery. Contact us today.
