Hip Replacement Surgery

The hip joint is one the largest joints of the body that serves in the movement of the thigh, forward and backward. The hip joint also rotates when sitting, and with changes of direction while walking. The joint of the hip is where the ball of the thigh (femur) joins the pelvis at a socket called the acetabulum. There is cartilage covering both the bone of the femur and the acetabulum of the pelvis in the hip joint. A joint lining tissue, called synovium, surrounds the hip joint. The synovium tissue produces synovial fluid that lubricates the joint and provides nutrients to the cartilage of the joint.

What causes hip pain?

The hip is a ball and socket joint that is an integral part of almost all body movement. It is the most flexible and free-moving joint in the body, and can move backwards and forwards, to the side, and can perform twisting motions. Full function of the hip is dependent on the coordination of bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments and nerves. It only takes one of these things not functioning properly to impinge movement and cause pain.

Hip pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

·       An injury that does not heal properly.

·       A chronic illness.

·       Normal wear and tear from years of constant use.

·       Severe arthritic conditions, especially osteoarthritis.

·       Injuries as a result of trauma, such as a hip fracture or dislocation caused by a fall.

What is a total hip replacement?

The Total hip replacement (or hip arthroplasty) technique has become widespread in recent years, in response to the need for improving hip joints that have been damaged by injury or arthritis. This is a surgical procedure where the diseased or damaged cartilage and bone of the hip joint is surgically replaced with artificial materials. The normal hip joint is a ball and socket joint. The socket is a “cup-shaped” component of the pelvis called the acetabulum. The ball is the head of the thighbone (femur). Total hip joint replacement involves surgical removal of the diseased or damaged ball and socket, replacing them with a metal (or ceramic) ball and stem inserted into the femur bone, and an artificial plastic (or ceramic) cup socket.

Benefits of total hip replacement

Relief from pain is the greatest benefit, and the major reason for hip replacement surgery. The procedure offers other benefits, such as:

• Improved movement, strength and coordination of the torso and leg.
• The ability to walk, climb stairs and maintain an active lifestyle in greater comfort.

If you think you may be a candidate for total hip replacement surgery, call Dr. Bill Hefley at (501) 663-6455 to request an appointment.