Hip replacement surgery is a procedure in which an orthopedic surgeon surgically removes a painful hip joint and replaces it with an artificial joint, which is often made from metal and plastic components. Hip replacement in New Orleans is usually performed when other treatment options have failed to provide adequate relief from pain.
Hip replacement surgery can be done traditionally or by using what is considered a minimally invasive technique. The main difference between the two is the size of the incision that is required.
During a standard hip replacement in New Orleans, the patient is given general anesthesia to relax the muscles and put them into a deep – but temporary – sleep to prevent any pain. As an alternative, a spinal anesthetic may be given to help prevent pain.
Your orthopedic surgeon will then make a cut along the side of the hip and reposition the muscles connected to the top of the thighbone in order to expose the hip joint. Next, the ball section of the joint is removed by cutting the thighbone with a saw. An artificial joint is then attached to the thighbone using either cement or a special material that allows the remaining bone to attach to the new joint.
The surgeon will then prepare the surface of the hipbone by removing any damaged cartilage and attach the replacement socket to the hipbone. The new ball part of the thighbone is then inserted into the socket of the hip. A drain may be put in to help drain any fluid. The doctor then reattaches the muscles and closes the incision.
While most hip replacements in
New Orleans are performed using the standard technique, which includes one 8” to 10” incision along the side of the hip, some orthopedic surgeons have been using a minimally invasive technique. In this approach, doctors make one to two cuts from 2” to 5” long. The same procedure is performed through these small cuts as with standard hip replacement surgery.
The smaller cuts can lessen blood loss, ease pain after surgery, shorten hospital stays, diminish scar appearance and speed healing.
What Happens Following a Hip Replacement in New Orleans?
After your hip replacement surgery you will probably stay in the hospital for four to six days and may have to stay in bed with a wedge-shaped cushion between your legs to keep the new hip joint in place. A drainage tube will be placed in your bladder to help you go to the bathroom.
Physical therapy typically begins the day after surgery and within days you will be able to walk with a walker, crutches or a cane. You will continue physical therapy for several weeks to months following the surgery.
What Activities Should I Avoid After Hip Replacement Surgery?
For anywhere from six to 12 months post-surgery, pivoting or twisting on the involved leg should be avoided. You should also not cross the leg past the midline of the body nor turn it inward or bend at the hip past 90 degrees. This includes both bending forward at the waist and squatting. Remember, by not following your surgeon’s recommendations you could dislocate your newly replaced hip joint and may require another surgery.
If you would like more information regarding hip replacement in New Orleans or see if you are a candidate, call our office today to Schedule a Consultation
