Hip Replacement Aftercare: What to expect after your surgery

• Jul 26,2023
• By: hipkneecare expert

Total hip replacement is a commonly performed operation for advanced arthritis of the hip with a very good functional outcome. Approximately 90% patients are pleased with the results. Recovery duratio

Total hip replacement is a commonly performed operation for advanced arthritis of the hip with a very good functional outcome. Approximately 90% patients are pleased with the results. Recovery duration can vary based on type of hip operation including surgical approach to the joint and the physical state of the recipient person.

It is paramount to adhere to the advice given by your hip surgeon and the physiotherapist.

Your hospital stay

You will be typically admitted on the day of the operation. After undergoing a total hip replacement, the typical hospital stay ranges from 1 to 2 days, depending on the speed of your recovery, your health and your mobility prior to the procedure.  Your surgeon may be engaged in enhanced recovery programme which helps streamline your inpatient stay and mobilisation. Some fit, active and motivated patients may even be discharged on the same day as the surgery. Before you are discharged, you will need to achieve several goals such as getting in and out of bed by yourself, having acceptable pain control, being able to eat, drink, and use the bathroom, and walking with an assistive device like a frame, or crutches.

Recovery at Home

It is generally helpful if there is an adult person at your home for the first 24-48 hours. It is important to prepare your home to make your recovery more comfortable. This could include rearranging furniture for easy manoeuvrability, placing frequently used items within easy reach, and installing assistive devices in the bathroom. The physiotherapist will offer you devices such as long grabber to pick things up from floor and assist in putting on socks etc.

Wound Care

Your surgical wound will need to be kept clean and dry. The wound is typically covered with a waterproof dressing and takes about two weeks to heal. During this time, it's okay to shower, but bathing and swimming should be avoided until the wound fully heals. Your nurse will inspect the surgical wound in two weeks. If your surgeon has used metal staples , these would require removal in two weeks.

Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation

Physical therapy is a crucial part of recovery after a hip replacement. It usually begins on the day of surgery and continues for six to eight weeks. The therapy starts with getting used to regular movements and practicing daily activities like getting out of bed or a chair and progresses to more difficult tasks such as climbing stairs and getting in or out of the car.

Pain Management

Some swelling and initial pain at the joint are normal after hip replacement. Pain levels should slowly decrease over time, and by 12 weeks post-surgery, your pain levels should be relatively low. If you experience consistent high levels of pain, it's important to consult your doctor as it could be a sign of infection or another complication.

Returning to Normal Activities

The timeline for returning to normal activities varies depending on the activity.   You would be asked to avoid excessive bending, sitting on a very low chair, cross your legs while sitting and sporting activities during at lease the first six weeks. For example, you are generally allowed to resume driving after six weeks by your hip surgeon.  If you have a desk job with minimal activity, you can return to work in about 6-8 weeks. If your job requires heavy lifting or is otherwise tough on the hips, it is recommended to take off about 8-12 weeks to recover. Many patients would benefit from a phase return.

Long-term Expectations

Modern hip prosthetics are made of a combination of metal, plastic, and ceramic parts, so they are more durable and cause fewer issues. These implants can last 20 to 30 years, and the risk of failure and the need for repeat surgeries is low.

Remember, everyone's recovery timeline will be different and is influenced by factors such as your general health, age, and level of activity before surgery. Always follow your doctor's advice and instructions during your recovery period to ensure the best possible outcome.

 

Mr Rakesh Choudhary is a consultant hip surgeon who has extensive experience in performing various types of hip replacement procedures. This includes hip replacements using cement and without cement.  He uses a posterior approach to the hip joint, which minimises the risk of developing a post-operative limp. He will discuss the procedure, the components he will use, the surgical approach, and hip replacement after care including rehabilitation with you to achieve the best possible outcome. He performs more than 340 hip and knee joint replacements in one year. His complication rates are very low, and most of his patients are very pleased with the outcome, as shown on live date on Doctify website (https://www.doctify.com/uk/specialist/rakesh-choudhary)

 

Mr Choudhary is available to consult and treat both self-funded and insured patients. You may visit his website www.hipkneecare.co.uk