DHAKA — Hip replacement is a surgical procedure that replaces a damaged hip joint with an artificial structure known as a prosthetic implant. It is recommended for patients whose hip pain and limited mobility cannot be controlled with medication, physical therapy or injections.
What hip replacement is and when it is recommended
Many patients with osteoarthritis, or other hip joint conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, bone deformity or injury, experience severe hip pain, an inability to move freely, disturbed sleep and limits on daily activity. When these conditions can no longer be controlled with medication, physical therapy or injections, hip replacement surgery is recommended. The aim of the operation is to relieve a painful hip joint and make movement easier for walking.
Benefits and risks
Hip replacement is generally part of comprehensive care that focuses on relieving pain and discomfort and improving mobility and function. Potential benefits include relief from pain, improved mobility and a greater ability to perform daily activities such as climbing stairs, squatting and walking.
It is a major surgery and carries risks. These include blood clots in the leg veins, known as deep vein thrombosis. Such clots can travel to the lungs and cause a condition called pulmonary embolism. Other possible complications include infection at the surgical site or within the joint, hip dislocation, loosening of the joint, persistent discomfort and a hematoma or bleeding at the surgical site. Many of these complications can result from poorly executed implant placement, doctors said, making the skill of the orthopedic surgeon a critical factor.
Recovery time
Hip replacement patients generally recover more quickly than knee replacement patients. Recovery times after a full hip replacement, however, can vary substantially from patient to patient. Several factors influence recovery, including pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, osteoporosis and the patient’s weight. Some patients may take six months to recover, while others recover in a few weeks. For patients without underlying complications, recovery usually takes three to six months.
Cost factors
The cost of the operation depends on several factors, including the type and brand of implant and the skill and experience of the orthopedic surgeon and the surgical team. Other patient health conditions that affect the length of hospital stay and the need for additional tests and medication also influence cost, as does the billing policy of the hospital.
Choosing a hospital
Hip replacement is a major operation that depends heavily on the orthopedic surgeon’s skill. The hospital where it is performed must also have adequate infrastructure and a trained team for pre-operative and post-operative care. Factors to consider include the availability of a skilled orthopedic surgeon trained in hip replacement to lead the operating team, a well-equipped operating theater with infection control systems and specialized orthopedic surgical equipment such as cement vacuum mixing, a C-arm and pulse lavage. Round-the-clock teams of orthopedic surgeons, anesthetists, nursing and paramedical staff are essential for post-operative recovery. A skilled physiotherapy team supervised by the orthopedic surgeon and clear post-discharge exercise guidance are also important. Around-the-clock diagnostic, dietary and pharmacy support is recommended.
বাংলায় মূল প্রতিবেদন পড়ুন · Read the original Bengali report