Hip Replacement (Conventional)

A conventional, or traditional, hip replacement is a surgical procedure that involves replacing a damaged hip joint with an artificial implant using a long incision to gain access to the joint. The surgeon removes the hip's ball-and-socket components and replaces them with prosthetic parts, most often through a posterior (back of the hip) or lateral (side of the hip) approach.

The procedure

Conventional total hip replacement is typically performed in a hospital and takes about 1–2 hours to complete. The general steps include:

• Anesthesia: A spinal block (numbing the lower half of your body) or general anesthesia (putting you completely asleep) is administered.
• Incision: A single incision, typically 8 to 12 inches long, is made over the side or back of the hip.
• Joint access: The surgeon cuts or detaches some muscles and tendons to expose the hip joint.
• Femoral preparation: The damaged femoral head (the ball) is removed. The hollow center of the femur (thighbone) is prepared to accept a metal stem.
• Socket preparation: The damaged cartilage is removed from the acetabulum (hip socket). A new metal socket is then placed into the pelvis.
• Implant assembly: A new artificial ball, made of metal or ceramic, is attached to the stem. A liner, often made of plastic, is placed inside the new socket.
• Final placement: The new ball is inserted into the new socket, and the surgeon checks the new joint's alignment and function.
• Closure: The muscles and tendons are repaired, and the incision is closed with stitches or staples.

Recovery

The recovery period for a conventional hip replacement typically lasts a few months, with rehabilitation beginning soon after surgery.

• Hospital stay: Most patients stay in the hospital for one to four days.
• Physical therapy: A physical therapist will help you start walking with a walker or crutches as soon as the day after surgery. A customized exercise program will help restore strength and range of motion.
• Daily activities: You can expect to resume most light daily activities within 3 to 6 weeks.
• Restrictions: Your doctor will provide precautions to prevent dislocation of the new joint while it heals. These may include avoiding extreme hip bending and not crossing your legs.
• Full recovery: Patients are encouraged to walk on the very first day after surgery. There is no period of strict bed rest, and they can use the restroom independently from day one. Recovery typically takes a few months, allowing patients to gradually return to normal activities.