In plain language
What is total hip replacement?
A total hip replacement removes the worn ball of the hip and resurfaces the socket. A new cup is placed in the pelvis and a stem with a new ball is fitted into the thigh bone. The aim is to reduce arthritic pain and restore useful movement when appropriate nonsurgical care no longer provides acceptable relief.Who it may help
When might it be considered?
- Advanced hip arthritis causing persistent groin pain, stiffness or loss of walking independence
- Avascular necrosis with collapse of the femoral head
- Selected hip fractures or damage from previous trauma
- Symptoms that remain intrusive despite medication, activity changes, exercise and other appropriate treatment
Before surgery
What may be considered first?
- Activity modification, weight optimisation and a walking aid where appropriate
- Targeted strengthening and mobility work
- Pain medication or selected injections after individual medical assessment
- Continued observation when symptoms remain manageable
Inside the operating theatre
What actually happens during the operation?
Planning the operation
Your symptoms, examination and X-rays are considered together. Implant size, fixation and surgical approach are planned around bone quality, anatomy, age, health and activity goals.
Reaching the hip joint
The surgeon reaches the hip through an incision and carefully moves between or through the surrounding tissues according to the chosen approach. Important muscles, nerves and blood vessels are protected.
Replacing the socket
Damaged cartilage and a small amount of bone are removed from the socket. A metal cup is fitted into the prepared bone, usually with a smooth plastic or ceramic liner inside it.
Replacing the ball
The damaged femoral head is removed. The upper thigh bone is shaped for a stem, which may be fixed with bone cement or designed for bone to grow onto it. A new ball is attached and placed into the new socket.
Checking stability
The surgeon checks leg length, movement and stability before washing and closing the wound. The final construct is confirmed clinically and, where appropriate, with imaging.
After the operation
What does recovery involve?
The first priorities are safe walking, wound care, clot prevention and regaining confidence with stairs and daily activities.
A walking aid is used until gait is safe and steady. Swelling, bruising and muscular discomfort are expected early and improve gradually.
Driving, work and return to exercise vary according to the operated side, surgical approach, medication use and individual progress. Recovery continues for several months even when walking improves earlier.
Informed consent
Important risks to understand
- Infection
- Blood clots
- Dislocation
- Fracture
- Leg-length difference
- Nerve or blood-vessel injury
- Implant wear, loosening or the future need for revision surgery
This is a general guide, not a complete consent discussion. Your surgeon will explain risks specific to your diagnosis, health, anatomy and proposed technique.
Common patient questions
Questions people often ask
Is the whole hip removed?+
No. The damaged joint surfaces are replaced: the femoral head is removed, the socket is resurfaced and the healthy lower part of the femur remains.
Will I walk on the same day?+
Many patients begin standing or walking with assistance on the day of surgery or the following morning, but medical condition and the details of surgery can change this plan.
How long does a hip replacement last?+
Modern implants often function for many years, but no implant is guaranteed for life. Age, activity, fixation, infection, wear and bone quality all influence longevity.
Clinical references
These independent patient resources informed the general explanation above.