| About Total Hip Replacement |

Surgery. As stated before, the surgery involves the removal of all of the damaged bone and cartilage. This is done with saws and drills much like a carpenter uses. The next step is to prepare the bone for the prosthesis. This involves using specialized tools to make precise cuts and to shape the bone so that the prosthesis will fit properly. The artificial joint is then placed into the bone with or without bone cement. The surgery itself takes between two to three hours, depending on the complexity of your case.

Total hip prostheses can be attached to the bone using a material called methylmethacrylate or, more simply, bone cement. With proper technique, this gives an immediate fixation of the prosthesis to the bone. Another method is called biologic fixation. This method requires that the surface of the prosthesis next to the bone is porous. With time, bone grows into the pores and the prosthesis becomes an integrated part of the joint. There are advantages and disadvantages to each type of Afixation. Furthermore, the type of fixation recommended to you will depend on your age, weight, and activity level.

Recovery Room. When your surgery is completed you will go to the recovery room where you will be closely monitored until the effects of the anesthesia and intra-operative medicines are decreased and you are relatively awake and comfortable.

Orthopaedic Unit. When you have completed your stay in the recovery room, you will be transferred to your hospital room in the orthopaedic nursing unit. You will be lying on your back in a comfortable position with a pillow between your legs. The pillow between your legs is designed so that you will not run the risk of dislocating the hip replacement in the initial postoperative period. If you have surgery early in the morning, you may sit up on the edge of the bed that evening. In general, all patients are out of bed within twenty-four hours and attending physical and occupational therapy. The therapists will instruct you in learning how to use crutches or a walker and being taught some of the precautions that are necessary in the immediate post-operative period. The physical therapist will answer any of your questions and will go over all of the details.