Is it true that more bone is removed during resurfacing than a standard total hip replacement?
It is a myth that more bone is removed during hip resurfacing than hip replacement. In fact, hip resurfacing is a bone preserving operation. Because the head is significantly larger than that of the standard total hip replacement, it is usually perceived that more bone would need to be removed on the pelvis side, but this is generally not true.
The outside diameter of the acetabular component is similar in size to the typical modular total hip replacement acetabular cup. This is because the resurfacing implant has a single part acetabular cup, the two-part nature of the shell-and-drop-in-liner style modular component ads to the thickness of the THR component. .
When will I be able to return to work after resurfacing?
Sedentary work is resumed by few people as early as a week to ten days after the surgery. Active or work involving rigorous labor can only be resumed after 6-8 weeks, t hough every patient has different timelines for recovery.
How long does the hip resurfacing surgery take?
Approximately 1½ -3 hours, depending on the condition of your hip at the time of surgery.
What about rehabilitation after the surgery? How long do I need to see a physical therapist after I go back?
The rehabilitation will begin the next day after the surgery at the hospital itself. Your physical therapist in India will do a number of exercises to regain your strength and range of motion. You should continue to exercise until your muscles are pain-free and you can walk without a limp. It is a good idea to continue your exercises as a lifetime commitment to keep your muscles strong.
When can I return to normal activities after hip resurfacing surgery?
This varies with each person. Some people return to sedentary work as early as 1 week after surgery. For active labor or heavy work, it may take 3 to 6 months to return to work.
How long would my replaced hip last?
The life of your new hip joint shall depend upon your physical condition, activity level, and weight. The average lift of a resurfaced hip is somewhere between 15-20 years.
What precautions do I need to take after total hip resurfacing?
Though this is not an exhaustive list of the precautions, these are the general guidelines to be followed after the surgery. The surgeon and the physical therapist will guide you in detail about the do's and don'ts after the surgery.
- Avoid heavy lifting and excessive stair climbing
- Maintain appropriate weight
- Avoid "impact loading" sports such as jogging, downhill skiing and high impact aerobics, twisting or impact stresses.
- Consult the surgeon before beginning any new sport or activity
- Avoid excessive bending when weight bearing, like climbing steep stairs
- Do not lift or push heavy objects
- Do not kneel
- Avoid low seating surfaces and chairs.
Are there chances of my body rejecting the artificial parts?
The materials used for total hip arthroplasty include titanium, cobalt chrome, and polyethylene. To date, there is little evidence suggesting any allergic reaction to these materials.
Can I sleep on the side of operation?
Yes, you can. But how soon can you do it depends on your comfort level. It is generally uncomfortable to sleep on the side of operation for few weeks after the surgery. If you do need to sleep on the operation side, keep pillows between your legs. It shall make the hip stable and shall be more comfortable for you than otherwise.
When can I start playing tennis or golf or other sports?
Active sports should not be resumed for at least 8 weeks after the surgery. You should start slow with short sessions and then slowly increase the activity level as tolerated by your body. Consult your surgeon before you start with active games.
When can I resume sexual activities after hip replacement surgery?
This depends upon your comfort level. You can resume sexual activities when your hip is comfortable enough to allow it. You should avoid positions that put too much stress on the hip joints. You can consult therapist for it.
Will the implant set off metal detectors since it is made of metal? Would it not cause problem when I go back home after the surgery at the airport?
Yes, they usually do. The hospital shall provide you with the letter stating that you have a metal prosthesis fixed inside your hip which shall help you clearing through the security checks without facing any problems. You should reach the airport little early to avoid any inconvenience.
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