Hip replacement surgery is a surgical procedure performed to eliminate severe damage and loss of function in the hip joint. The hip joint, one of the most important load-bearing joints of the body, may undergo wear and deformations over time. In this joint, which is actively used in daily movements, serious health problems may arise due to reasons such as calcification (osteoarthritis), rheumatoid arthritis, hip fractures and congenital hip diseases.
In such cases, hip surgery offers a long-term solution, reducing pain and helping patients regain their mobility. Thanks to improved surgical techniques and modern medical technologies, these surgeries are now performed more safely and comfortably. However, patients may have many questions about the surgical process, the recovery period and the return to daily life.
In this article, we will discuss in detail how hip replacement surgery is performed, what to pay attention to in the postoperative recovery process, movement restrictions and rehabilitation process. We will also contribute to raising awareness of patients about this important operation by providing information about hip replacement prices in 2025.
Table of Contents
- What is Hip Replacement Surgery?
- Why is Hip Replacement Surgery Performed?
- Hip Replacement Surgery Process
- After Hip Replacement Surgery
- Toilet Use After Surgery
- Comments After Hip Replacement Surgery
- Cost of Hip Replacement Surgery
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hip Replacement Surgery?
Hip replacement surgery is a surgical procedure to treat severe wear, deformation or damage to the joint. Over time, wear and tear of cartilage tissue and deterioration of joint surfaces can lead to problems such as severe pain, limitation of movement and difficulty in performing daily activities. In such cases, hip replacement surgery is recommended as the most effective solution when drug treatments, physical therapy and injections are insufficient.
During surgery, worn or damaged joint surfaces are removed and replaced with an artificial joint (prosthesis) made of metal, ceramic or polyethylene. The modern prosthetic technologies used today offer the closest result to natural joint mobility, allowing patients to move painlessly. Hip replacement surgery provides great relief and a significant improvement in quality of life, especially for individuals whose mobility is severely restricted due to conditions such as advanced arthritis (osteoarthritis), rheumatoid arthritis, hip dislocation, avascular necrosis and traumatic fractures.
Thanks to advances in surgical techniques, hip replacement surgeries can now be performed with more minimally invasive methods and the recovery process of patients is becoming faster and more comfortable. With the right rehabilitation and physical therapy program after surgery, patients can return to their daily lives in a short time, walk and lead an active life as before.
Hip replacement surgery is a surgical procedure that needs to be planned specifically for each patient. Therefore, it is important to consult an orthopedic specialist to get detailed information about the necessity of the surgery, the type of prosthesis to be applied, surgical methods and the healing process.
Why is hip replacement surgery performed?
Hip replacement surgery is a surgical procedure performed to increase mobility, eliminate chronic pain and improve the quality of life of patients. Over time, patients may have difficulty performing their daily activities as a result of structural disorders in the joint, wear of the cartilage tissue and friction of the bones against each other.
The reasons for this surgery include diseases that limit physical mobility, negatively affect quality of life and make daily activities difficult. The most common causes are as follows:
- Hip Joint Calcification (Osteoarthritis)
Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition that occurs when joint cartilage wears away over time and joint surfaces deteriorate. Although it is usually age-related, overweight, joint injuries or genetic predisposition can increase the risk of osteoarthritis.
- Rheumatoid arthritis (inflammatory rheumatism)
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks joint tissue, causing inflammation and deformation of the joints. Over time, this condition destroys the joint structure, causing severe pain and loss of movement.
- Traumatic Fractures and Joint Damage
Traumatic events such as traffic accidents, falls, or sports injuries can cause serious fractures of the hip bone. Especially in older patients, such fractures can be difficult to heal. They can also lead to permanent deformations in the joint.
- Hip Dislocations and Congenital Disorders
Some individuals may be born with congenital deformities of the hip joint. Conditions such as developmental hip dysplasia can lead to premature wear of the joint over time. This can result in severe mobility limitations later in life.
- Hip problems caused by osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a disease that causes bones to become brittle due to decreased bone density. Hip fractures caused by osteoporosis are quite common, especially in older people. The healing process can be difficult and long due to weakened bone tissue.
Hip Replacement Surgery Process
The surgical process varies depending on the patient’s condition and the surgical technique. The general stages are as follows:
- Preparatory Phase: The patient’s general health condition is assessed and necessary tests are performed.
- Surgery: The hip joint is removed and replaced with a prosthesis.
- First 24 Hours: The patient is kept under observation and early mobilization is initiated.
- Duration of Hospitalization: It usually varies between 3-5 days.
- Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy: Regular exercises are recommended after surgery.
After Hip Replacement Surgery
There are some important points that patients should pay attention to after hip replacement surgery:
- First 6 weeks: Patients should avoid excessive bending, squatting and crossing their legs.
- Physical Therapy: Regular exercise should be done to increase muscle strength.
- Risk of Infection: The wound area should be kept clean. Antibiotics prescribed by the doctor should be used regularly.
- Sitting and Lying Positions: After surgery, special pillows should be used. Additionally, you should sit upright.
Toilet Use After Surgery
After hip replacement surgery, patients need to take certain precautions while performing their daily activities. Toilet use is one of the most important issues after surgery. Sitting on low toilet bowls for the first few weeks may overload the prosthetic hip. Sitting at the wrong angle may increase the risk of dislocation of the prosthesis. Therefore, it is recommended that patients use high toilet bowls or toilet risers.
In addition, using support devices and handrails during toileting ensures patient safety. These measures also help to avoid sudden movements. Especially when sitting and standing up, the movements should be slow and controlled. This helps to avoid putting too much pressure on the hip joint. Adhering to the special positions recommended by the doctor and physiotherapist makes the healing process more comfortable.
Hygiene is also of great importance in the postoperative care process. Since bending should be avoided, toilet cleaning apparatus with long handles should be used. Such small details speed up the healing process. It also helps the patient to continue their daily life more safely.
Comments After Hip Replacement Surgery
The vast majority of patients who undergo hip replacement surgery report a significant improvement in their lives after the operation. Especially, the increased comfort in daily movements is among the most emphasized positive changes. Reduced difficulty in walking is frequently mentioned by patients. The disappearance of constant pain complaints is also a common observation.
However, most of the patients state that the postoperative process requires patience. They also emphasize that the healing process may vary from person to person. Some patients make great progress within a few weeks. However, some patients may need physical therapy for several months to regain full mobility. One of the most important factors in this process is to regularly perform the recommended exercises. These exercises should be followed as advised by the doctor and physiotherapist.
In addition, some patients experience mild pain in the prosthesis area. This occurs in the early postoperative period. In addition, stiffness and limitation of movement are also observed. This condition decreases and disappears over time. Patients are able to lead a more active life compared to before the operation. The vast majority of people who have undergone surgery report a significant improvement. They state that the operation has greatly enhanced their quality of life. With the right care process, the prosthesis can function for many years without any problems.
Cost of Hip Replacement Surgery
The cost of hip replacement surgery varies depending on the needs of the patient. The health service of choice is also an influential factor on this cost. There are many factors that affect the total cost of the surgery. Among these, the type and quality of the prosthesis used is an important factor. Surgical technique and the services provided by the hospital can also affect the cost. In addition, the level of expertise of the doctor is an important factor. The physical therapy required after surgery is also among the determining factors.
There may be price differences between private and public hospitals. The scope of the preferred health service is also a determining factor on cost. Some hospitals offer standard health services. Some centers offer additional services such as VIP service options and special rehabilitation programs.
In addition, the post-operative care process should also be considered in budget planning. The lifespan of the prosthesis may vary depending on the patient’s lifestyle. It also depends on how well they follow the doctor’s recommendations.
In order to achieve a successful result in the long term, careful planning is essential. A detailed evaluation should be made before surgery. In addition, it is of great importance to get information from reliable health institutions.
Conclusion
Hip replacement surgery is an effective surgical method for individuals with severe joint damage. This operation increases mobility and significantly improves quality of life. Severe pain, limitation of movement, and joint deformations can occur. These issues make it difficult for patients to perform their daily activities. In such cases, hip replacement surgery provides permanent relief.
However, there are important points that patients should pay attention to after a successful surgery. It is important to comply with the physical therapy process. Additionally, paying attention to the movement restrictions recommended by the doctor is essential. Applying appropriate care methods after surgery also accelerates the healing process. In this way, patients can return to their daily lives in a shorter time.
The appropriate treatment method and postoperative process may differ for each patient. Therefore, it is important to get the most accurate information about hip replacement surgery. In addition, an orthopedic specialist should be consulted to evaluate the most appropriate treatment options. These options should be tailored to the individual’s health condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does hip replacement surgery take?
It is usually completed between 1-2 hours.
When can I walk after hip replacement surgery?
Patients should usually walk with support within the first 24 hours after surgery.
What is the lifespan of a hip prosthesis?
Depending on the quality of the prosthesis used, it is durable for 15-20 years.
Is hip replacement surgery risky?
Like any surgical procedure, it involves some risks such as infection and prosthesis dislocation. However, the success rate is high when performed by an experienced surgeon.
How should the sitting position be after hip replacement?
The knees should not be higher than the hips and should not exceed 90 degrees.
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