Total Hip Replacement

Total Hip Replacement

Understanding the Hip Joint

The hip joint is one of the largest strongest and most important joints in the body. It is built like a ball-and-socket mechanism where the rounded head of the femur (thigh bone) fits securely into the acetabulum, which is part of the pelvis. This design allows the leg to move smoothly in several directions forward, backward, sideways, and in rotation.

In a normal hip, the joint surfaces are covered with a soft layer of cartilage that cushions movement and prevents friction. When the cartilage wears away or gets damaged, the bones rub directly against each other. This causes stiffness, pain, swelling, and reduced mobility. Over time, walking, climbing stairs, or even resting comfortably can become difficult.

What Is Total Hip Replacement?

Total Hip Replacement (THR), also called total hip arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure performed to replace the diseased or worn-out hip joint with artificial components. The socket is replaced with a strong polyethylene or ceramic cup, often supported by a titanium or metal shell. The femoral head is replaced with a metal or ceramic ball, which is attached to a stem made of titanium or cobalt-chromium alloy that is fixed inside the thigh bone.

These implants are designed to replicate the natural movement of the hip, relieve pain, and restore function. For many patients, this procedure provides long-term relief and the ability to return to an active lifestyle.

Who Needs Hip Replacement Surgery?

Hip replacement is recommended when conservative treatments such as physiotherapy, medications, exercise, or lifestyle modifications no longer relieve symptoms. Conditions that often require surgery include:

• Osteoarthritis (age-related wear and tear)
• Rheumatoid arthritis (autoimmune joint disease)
• Ankylosing spondylitis (chronic inflammation)
• Hip dysplasia (abnormal joint development)
• Avascular necrosis (loss of blood supply to the hip bone)
• Severe hip fractures or trauma

When Surgery Is Considered Necessary.

Hip replacement is not the first line of treatment. Surgery is usually recommended when:

• Pain is severe and persistent, even at rest
• Stiffness and swelling make walking, standing, or daily activities very difficult
• Sleep is disturbed due to hip pain
• Activities such as climbing stairs, getting out of a chair, or walking short distances become nearly impossible
• Hip deformity or instability is present
• Work and social life are significantly affected.

When these symptoms interfere with daily life and conservative therapies no longer help, surgery becomes the best option for long-term relief.

Implant Fixation Techniques

There are two main approaches to securing hip implants:

• Cemented Fixation – The implant is anchored with a special surgical cement. This option is often chosen for older patients or those with softer bone quality.
• Uncemented Fixation – The implant has a porous surface that allows the natural bone to grow into it over time, securing it naturally. This method is preferred in younger and more active patients.

The choice between cemented and uncemented fixation depends on age, bone strength, and activity levels, and is made after consultation between the surgeon and patient.

 Bearing Surface Options

Artificial hip joints are made with different combinations of materials, such as:

• Metal-on-polyethylene
• Ceramic-on-ceramic
• Ceramic-on-polyethylene

The most widely used option today is ceramic or metal heads paired with highly cross-linked polyethylene sockets, as these provide strength, low wear, and durability.

Benefits and Risks of Hip Replacement

The primary benefit of hip replacement surgery is pain relief and restoration of mobility. Most patients experience significant improvement in their quality of life, allowing them to return to daily routines and even recreational activities. Improved joint stability also reduces the risk of falls and injuries.

Like any surgery, there are risks such as infection, blood clots, or implant wear over time. However, with advanced surgical techniques, strict safety protocols, and modern implant designs, complications are rare, and outcomes are highly successful.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation is a key factor in achieving the best results after hip replacement. Patients usually begin physiotherapy within a day of surgery. Exercises are focused on strengthening the muscles around the hip, improving balance, and regaining mobility.

Walking aids such as crutches or walkers may be required for a short period, and most patients are able to resume light activities within a few weeks. Full recovery, including return to normal routines, usually occurs within three to six months, depending on overall health and commitment to rehabilitation.

Hospitals today often follow enhanced recovery protocols, which emphasize early mobilization, effective pain management, and nutritional support. These measures help patients return to daily life faster and with fewer complications.

Why Choose Our Joint Replacement Program

At DHEE Hospitals in Bangalore, Dr. Chandrasekar Chikkamuniyappa has developed a specialized joint replacement program based on years of international training in India, the UK, and the USA. The program brings together an expert team of joint replacement surgeons, pain specialists, orthopedic physiotherapists, yoga therapists, nutritionists, and patient counselors.

Highlights of the program include:

• Globally trained surgeons with expertise in advanced techniques
• Use of modern technology, including computer-assisted and navigation-based surgeries
• NABH-accredited facilities with international safety standards
• Low infection rates and high patient satisfaction
• Rapid rehabilitation protocols for faster recovery
• Comprehensive services including revision and complex hip replacements

Affordable and Accessible Care

One of the guiding principles of our program is that cost should not prevent patients from receiving world-class care. Treatment packages are designed to be transparent and affordable while maintaining the highest medical standards.

Patients receive personalized care from consultation through surgery to rehabilitation, ensuring every aspect of recovery is supported. With advanced technology, holistic rehabilitation, and a patient-first approach, our aim is to restore mobility, relieve pain, and help individuals return to an active, independent lifestyle after hip replacement surgery.