Frequently asked questions

When a hip joint becomes damaged through wear and tear, sports related injuries or disease, a prosthetic hip joint can be surgically inserted to help the patient regain a wider range of movement. This type of hip replacement operation is called ‘hip arthroplasty’ and it aims to give the patient restored functionality, significant pain reduction and a return to normal life. In the past the operation was used simply for pain relief, but technology now allows return to sports and normal function. When total hip replacement surgery is carried out, the damaged hip is replaced with artificial parts called a prosthesis; a medical device that substitutes the hip joint. The prosthesis commonly consists of a socket and ball, either placed over a shaped femoral head (resurfacing) or linked to a stem usually made from steel or titanium.

A very common cause of hip replacements is osteoarthritis. This is where the hip is damaged through disease of the hip joint, although replacements are also necessary for people with rheumatoid, childhood hip problems or fractures. Timing of hip replacement depends on the underlying problem but is ideally guided by the patient’s symptoms. With osteoarthritis, the optimal time for replacement varies between patients. As a general rule, once the pain or stiffness in a hip starts to regularly affect your lifestyle or activities, then consideration should be given to surgery.

Hip resurfacing is a more conservative approach to hip replacement. Resurfacing helps preserve bone which can be used in later hip operations if required. The procedure is popular in cases involving a younger patient, due to strength and quality of the bone. These are now available in metal or ceramic. Bristol was one of only six centres nationally to offer the ceramic upon its release, due to our expertise and history with resurfacing.

All types of surgery present risks to the patient of one sort or another. Hip surgery also presents problems and complications but, with a dedicated specialist hip surgeon who has years of experience and regular training, the risks should be significantly reduced. The most serious complications in hip surgery are blood clots forming in the legs and travelling to the lungs (pulmonary embolus), and infection of the hip joint. These are fortunately rare. Ask your orthopaedic surgeon about these risks and they will explain any potential problems in more detail. We take numerous precautions against potential risks, and these will explained during the consenting process.

After a hip replacement, patients usually find some numbness in their skin, stiffness of the hip and possibly some hip pain. These conditions fade with time and many patients report wider range of movement and reduced pain at a later date. It is recommended you do not drive after your hip operation until you can perform an emergency stop and use the pedals without limitation, so consult your surgeon on this matter. Expect to use a stick or for anywhere between two to six weeks. Generally the hospital stay for a straightforward procedure is one or two nights.

Improvements in modern medicine and technology have lengthened the lifespan of hip replacements. National Joint Registries around the world have suggested that we can expect modern hip replacements to last upwards of 30years in 92% of patients.

It is recommended you use the crutches provided for a minimum of two weeks after hip arthroscopy, mainly to allow soft tissue swelling and inflammation to settle before embarking on the rehabilitation process. Hip arthroscopy is a very different procedure to, say, keyhole surgery of the knee. The procedure is much longer and requires partial dislocation of the hip, hence recovery to smooth walking and start of sporting activities can be 6-8 weeks. In total one should expect the final steady state result to be reached between 6-12 months.

Hip arthroscopy is a same day surgical procedure in the vast majority of cases.

Patients with hip arthritis often experience back pain in addition. Hip replacement won’t cure spinal arthritis (spondylosis) of course, BUT reducing the stiffness of an arthritic hip with replacement can take the pressure off an irritated spine, and allow it to settle back into a rested state. In addition, if hip arthritis has resulted in a difference in leg lengths, correcting this can help spinal alignment.

Many exercises are posted on the internet which help recovery after a hip operation. Take guidance from the physiotherapy team at your local centre or hospital who are experienced and have expert skills. You will need to exercise to help strengthen the leg and hip, focusing predominantly on the gluteal muscles.

Cycling is a non-impact sport/activity and is an excellent way to return to early activity after surgery. Static bike initially, then out and about once balance regained. Wait two to four weeks after the hip operation and talk to your physio so they can provide recovery exercises that will help you get back to cycling. A static bike at home or in the gym can be a very useful adjunct to the rehabilitation process.