Total Hip Replacement
What is Total Hip Replacement?
Total hip replacement is a surgical procedure in which the damaged cartilage and bone are removed from the hip joint and replaced with artificial components. The main indication for total hip replacement is arthritis.
Arthritis is the inflammation of joints, which results in pain, swelling, stiffness and limited movement. Hip arthritis is a common cause of chronic hip pain and disability.
What are the Symptoms of Arthritis?
The most common symptom of hip arthritis is joint pain and stiffness, resulting in a limited range of motion. Vigorous activity can increase pain and stiffness, which may cause limping while walking.
How is Arthritis Diagnosed?
Diagnosis is made by evaluating your medical history, performing a physical examination and taking X-rays of the arthritic joint.
Total Hip Replacement in Colorado Springs, CO
Total hip replacement replaces damaged hip joint surfaces with artificial components to help relieve arthritis pain and improve mobility. When hip pain, stiffness, and difficulty walking persist despite nonsurgical treatment, joint replacement may be an option. Dr. Michael Feign, DO, provides hip replacement care at Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group in Colorado Springs, CO. A board-certified orthopaedic surgeon with fellowship training in adult reconstructive surgery, Dr. Feign specializes in hip and knee arthritis and total joint replacement, seeing patients at the North and South campuses.
What is the Procedure for Total Hip Replacement?
Surgery may be recommended if conservative treatment options such as anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy do not relieve your symptoms.
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia. During the procedure, a surgical cut is made over the hip to expose the hip joint and the femur is dislocated from the acetabulum. The surface of the socket is cleaned and the damaged or arthritic bone removed using a reamer. The acetabular component is inserted into the socket using screws, or occasionally, bone cement. A liner made of plastic, ceramic or metal is placed inside the acetabular component.
The femur or thighbone is then prepared by removing the arthritic bone using special instruments to exactly fit the new metal femoral component. The femoral component is then inserted to the femur either by a press fit or using bone cement. Then the femoral head component made of metal or ceramic is placed on the femoral stem. All the new parts are secured in place using special cement. The muscles and tendons around the new joint are repaired and the incision is closed.
What is the Postoperative Care Involved in Total Hip Replacement?
After undergoing total hip replacement, you must take special care to prevent the new joint from dislocating and ensure proper healing. Some of the common precautions to be taken include:
- Avoid the combined movement of bending your hip and turning your foot inwards
- Keep a pillow between your legs while sleeping for 6 weeks
- Never cross your legs and bend your hips past a right angle (90)
- Avoid sitting on a low chair
- Avoid bending down to pick up things; instead, a grabber can be used to do so
- Use an elevated toilet seat
What are the Risks and Complications of Total Hip Replacement?
As with any major surgical procedure, there are certain potential risks and complications involved with total hip replacement surgery. The possible complications after total hip replacement may include:
- Infection
- Dislocation
- Fracture of the femur or pelvis
- Injury to nerves or blood vessels
- Formation of blood clots in the leg veins
- Leg length inequality
- Wearing out of the hip prosthesis
- Failure to relieve pain
- Scar formation
- Pressure sores
Why Choose Dr. Feign for Total Hip Replacement in Colorado Springs, CO?
Choosing a surgeon with specialized training can help you make informed decisions about hip replacement. Dr. Feign’s qualifications and clinical focus include:
- Board-certified expertise Certified by the American Osteopathic Board of Orthopaedic Surgery.
- Specialized fellowship training Completed an adult reconstruction fellowship at the University of Utah.
- Focus on hip and knee care Treats arthritis, complex hip and knee injuries, and conditions requiring total joint replacement.
- Established community experience Has served the Colorado Springs community for more than 20 years.
- Two practice locations Sees patients at CSOG’s North and South campuses in Colorado Springs.
Total Hip Replacement FAQs
Schedule a Hip Replacement Consultation in Colorado Springs, CO
If ongoing hip pain is affecting your mobility or daily activities, schedule a consultation with Dr. Michael Feign at Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group. With North and South campus locations in Colorado Springs, CO, you can discuss your symptoms, treatment options, and whether total hip replacement is appropriate for you. Contact the practice to request an appointment.
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