Modern hip replacement surgery is very durable. There is no age limit and anyone with severe hip disease can undergo total hip replacement providing they are fit for surgery. Diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure, etc. are not contraindications for surgery as long as they are in control. With good surgical technique, most patients can sit on the floor too.
It is extremely important that the surgeon who does your hip replacement is experienced and well trained, as consequences of bad surgery are very serious. The hospital where you have your surgery should have a very low infection rate. Post-operative infection in particular is very difficult to control and generally requires further major surgeries.
There are many types of hip replacement:
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- Cemented
- Uncemented
- Hybrid
There are also many bearing options and your surgeon would be the best person to discuss these details with. All you need to know is that modern hip replacement materials and bearings are very durable and reliable and rarely break. A good implant and bearing is the key to long-term success of your hip in addition of course to the quality of surgery.
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Medical Team
Dr. Udai Prakash
MBBS, FRCS (Eng), FRCS (Edin), FRCS (Tr & Orth) UK
Director, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon. Chief of Joint Replacement Surgery & Sports Injuries Unit
Patient’s Testimony: Total Hip Replacement
I was approaching 40. I had a good career, a happy family and everything looked bright for the future. Then one day, I felt a pain in my left hip. I thought it would pass, but it gradually became unbearable. I was diagnosed with avascular necrosis or hip AVN.
I couldn’t believe it. Doctors gave me medicines but only the painkillers worked as long as I took them regularly. I went through 14 months of frustration and despair. For my condition, hip replacement was a suitable option, but I was anxious whether I could get back to life 100%. I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to play with my son.
As the pain worsened, my wife kept telling me surgery was perhaps the only way. A friend of mine said that I should go to Udai Clinic as it is one of the most reputed orthopaediccenters in Hyderabad. I met Dr. Udai Prakash who was visiting as a specialist from the UK at that time. He said there was not much point in delaying surgery, as it was the only option.
I did some research and found that all over India and globally, people were living active lives after hip replacement surgery. Moreover, I learnt that advances in implant options now allow greater stability and range of motion and may even enable running.
In June 2009, I underwent a ceramic bearing hip replacement.Recovery from surgery was surprisingly smooth. I had very little discomfort. I went through a rigorous rehab program under my surgeon’s supervision. His encouragement and my wife’s support helped me recover quickly. Looking back, I wonder why I delayed the surgery for so long.
Within three months, I was back on track. Life felt more precious than ever before.
As a result, I became a better husband, a better father, a better professional, and a better member of society.
I got a second chance.
I have learnt that every challenge is an opportunity to become better.
So, never stop moving.