Hip Replacement Surgery - Total Hip Arthroplasty
Hip replacement surgery involves removing the damaged parts of the hip joint and replacing them with artificial components made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. It’s usually recommended when arthritis or injury causes severe pain and stiffness that limits movement.
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The aim is to relieve pain, restore mobility, and improve quality of life. Most patients can walk with support soon after surgery and gradually return to normal activities over the following weeks.
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If you’re experiencing ongoing hip pain or stiffness, you can complete the Oxford Hip Score, a short questionnaire that helps assess how much your hip symptoms are affecting your daily life.
Frequently Asked Questions - Total Hip Replacement
1. What is a total hip replacement?
It’s a surgical procedure where the damaged parts of the hip joint are replaced with artificial components to relieve pain and improve movement.
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2. When is hip replacement surgery recommended?
Usually when arthritis, injury, or wear and tear causes ongoing pain and stiffness that no longer respond to medication, physiotherapy, or lifestyle changes.
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3. How long does the surgery take?
The operation typically lasts between one and two hours, depending on the individual case.
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4. What is the recovery time?
Most patients stay in hospital for a few days and use walking aids at first. Many people can return to normal daily activities within 4–6 weeks. The majority of recovery takes place during the first 3 months, with continued improvement for up to a year, depending on your overall health and progress.
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5. Will I be in pain after surgery?
Some discomfort is normal after surgery, but pain relief medication and gentle physiotherapy help manage this effectively.
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6. How long will my new hip last?
Modern hip replacements are very durable — most last 15 to 20 years or longer, depending on activity levels and overall health.
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7. Are there any risks or complications?
As with any surgery, there are small risks such as infection, blood clots, or dislocation. Your surgeon will discuss these in detail before the operation.
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8. When can I drive or return to work?
Most people can drive again after about 6 weeks and return to work within 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the type of job and recovery progress.
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9. Will I be able to do sports after hip replacement?
Low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, and cycling are encouraged once recovery is complete, but high-impact sports should generally be avoided.
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10. What kind of follow-up care will I need?
Regular check-ups and physiotherapy sessions help monitor progress and ensure the best long-term outcome.