Hip

Total Hip Replacement

A Total Hip Replacement (THR) is one of the most widely performed and successful surgeries in orthopaedic practice today. With outstanding outcomes in relieving pain from hip osteoarthritis, it provides significant functional benefits, allowing patients to return to daily activities with reduced pain and improved mobility.

What is Total Hip Replacement?

Total Hip Replacement involves the surgical removal of the damaged hip joint surfaces, including the femoral head (ball) and acetabulum (socket), and their replacement with prosthetic components. These components—made from metal, ceramic, and/or plastic—are designed to restore smooth, frictionless motion in the joint, mimicking a natural ball-and-socket mechanism.

This procedure has proven to be highly effective for hip osteoarthritis and offers long-lasting results in pain relief and functional recovery. A study from the Australian Orthopaedic Association (AOA) shows that 95% of patients experience significant pain relief and improved joint function at the 10-year mark post-surgery .

The Procedure

During total hip replacement surgery, the procedure follows these main steps:

  1. Anaesthesia: The patient is anaesthetised to ensure comfort throughout the surgery.
  2. Accessing the Hip Joint: The surgeon makes an incision to access the hip joint. The femoral head is dislocated from the acetabulum to gain access to the joint surfaces.
  3. Removal of Damaged Parts: The damaged femoral head is removed, and the femoral canal is prepared for the insertion of a new stem component. Depending on the patient’s age and bone quality, the stem is either cemented or inserted as a press-fit.
  1. Anaesthesia: The patient is anaesthetised to ensure comfort throughout the surgery.
  2. Accessing the Hip Joint: The surgeon makes an incision to access the hip joint. The femoral head is dislocated from the acetabulum to gain access to the joint surfaces.
  3. Removal of Damaged Parts: The damaged femoral head is removed, and the femoral canal is prepared for the insertion of a new stem component. Depending on the patient’s age and bone quality, the stem is either cemented or inserted as a press-fit.
  4. Reshaping the Acetabulum: The damaged cartilage and bone in the acetabulum (hip socket) are reamed to fit the acetabular cup.
  5. Insertion of the Prosthetic Components: The acetabular cup is secured using screws or cement, and a smooth polyethylene, ceramic, or metal liner is placed inside. A metal or ceramic femoral head is then inserted to complete the joint, allowing for smooth gliding and restoring mobility.

The choice of implant materials and fixation methods is tailored to each patient, and Dr. Ryan du Sart will discuss these options during your consultation.


After Your Operation: What to Expect

Pain Management

Pain levels vary depending on the procedure’s complexity and the condition of the hip joint before surgery. Upon waking from anaesthesia, the anaesthetist will ensure appropriate pain relief options are discussed. Post-surgery, patients will receive:

  • Pain Relief: Painkillers, such as paracetamol and anti-inflammatory medications (if tolerated), help control pain in the days following surgery.
  • Breakthrough Pain Management: For episodes of heightened pain, stronger medication is administered as necessary.
  • Local Anaesthesia: Prior to surgery, a local anaesthetic will be injected to reduce post-operative pain, providing significant relief and reducing discomfort.


Mobility After Surgery

A key aspect of hip replacement recovery is rehabilitation. Physiotherapists will begin assisting you with mobility exercises early on, typically the day after surgery. Most patients begin to bear full weight immediately, using crutches, and can walk independently within 10-14 days.

Key aspects of recovery include:

  • Gradual Return to Walking: Crutches are typically used in the first few days to help with mobility.
  • Exercise: Follow the prescribed exercises to ensure optimal recovery, strengthen muscles, and improve joint function.
  • Physical Therapy: Comprehensive rehab is essential for restoring strength and flexibility, ensuring long-term success and reducing the risk of complications.


Return to Work and Sport

The timeline for returning to work and normal activities varies based on the nature of the surgery and the patient’s work requirements:

  • Return to Work: Most patients will need at least 2 weeks off work to allow incision healing and basic mobility improvement. If your work involves heavy lifting, prolonged standing, or excessive stair climbing, recovery may require 6-8 weeks.
  • Return to Sport: Low-impact activities such as swimming, cycling, and hydrotherapy can be resumed after 4 weeks, while high-impact activities like running and jumping should be avoided for 8-12 weeks post-surgery.


Driving After Surgery

The Australian Orthopaedic Association (AOA) recommends avoiding driving for at least 6 weeks following hip replacement surgery. However, patients who had surgery on the right hip may need longer before returning to driving. Dr. du Sart will advise on when it’s safe to resume driving based on individual progress.


Recovery Timeline

Patients can generally expect the following:

  • Immobilisation and Healing: The initial period of recovery requires rest, along with keeping the hip immobilised to ensure proper healing of the joint.
  • Rehabilitation: Following surgery, physiotherapy is essential for regaining strength and mobility. A progressive return to weight-bearing activities occurs gradually over the next 3-6 months.
  • Full Recovery: For most individuals, full recovery can take up to 12 months for complete recovery, though improvements in mobility and pain reduction will occur well before this.


When to Consider Hip Replacement

If you are living with chronic hip pain due to hip osteoarthritis, a fracture, or degenerative conditions, total hip replacement surgery can offer significant relief. When conservative treatments like medications, physical therapy, or injections are no longer effective, THR may be the right option.

Research shows that Total Hip Replacement surgery provides high satisfaction rates, with more than 90% of patients reporting significant improvements in pain and function post-surgery (Australian Orthopaedic Association Annual Report, 2022).


Why Choose Dr. Ryan du Sart?

Dr. Ryan du Sart is a highly skilled, fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon with extensive experience in hip replacement surgery. He offers:

  • Personalised Care: A tailored approach to each patient’s unique needs and recovery goals.
  • State-of-the-Art Facilities: Utilisation of advanced surgical techniques and equipment for optimal outcomes.
  • Patient-Focused Care: Comprehensive support through the surgical process, from consultation to post-operative rehabilitation.


Book a Consultation

If you are experiencing hip pain and considering hip replacement surgery, it’s important to seek professional advice early. Dr. Ryan du Sart offers consultations to discuss your symptoms and evaluate your treatment options.

Phone: (08) 9779 9767
Email: admin@ryandusart.com.au

Clinic Locations:

6 Higgins Street, South Bunbury, WA 6230

20 Prince Street, Busselton, WA 6280



References:

  1. AOANJRR Annual Report (2022). Australian Orthopaedic Association National Joint Replacement Registry.
  2. Learmonth ID, et al. (2007). The operation of the century: total hip replacement. Lancet.
  3. Bannuru RR, et al. (2019). OARSI guidelines for the non-surgical management of knee, hip, and polyarticular osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis Cartilage.
  4. Fransen M, et al. (2020). Exercise for osteoarthritis of the hip. Cochrane Review.