Hip Replacement Patient Notebook - Christiana Care Health System
Hip Replacement Patient Notebook - Christiana Care Health System
Hip Replacement Patient Notebook - Christiana Care Health System
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About Total <strong>Hip</strong> Surgery<br />
and FAQs<br />
We are glad you have chosen the Center for Advanced Joint <strong>Replacement</strong> to care for your<br />
hip problem. Below is a list of the most often asked questions along with their answers. This<br />
notebook gives added information. If your have any other questions, please ask your<br />
surgeon or the Center for Advanced Joint <strong>Replacement</strong> case manager. Our goal is for you to<br />
be fully informed about this procedure.<br />
What is arthritis and why does my hip hurt?<br />
In the hip joint there is a layer of smooth cartilage on the<br />
ball of the upper end of the thigh bone (femur) and<br />
another layer within your hip socket. This cartilage<br />
serves as a cushion and lets smooth motion of your hip.<br />
Arthritis is a wearing away of this cartilage. This wears<br />
down to your bone. Rubbing of bone against bone<br />
causes pain, swelling and stiffness.<br />
What is a total hip replacement?<br />
A total hip replacement is an operation that removes the<br />
ball of the upper thigh bone (femur) as well as harmed<br />
cartilage from your hip socket. The ball is replaced with a<br />
metal ball that is fixed solidly inside the thigh bone.<br />
BEFORE: Raw bone<br />
rubbing on raw bone<br />
AFTER: A new<br />
surface creates a<br />
smooth functioning<br />
joint<br />
The socket is replaced with a plastic liner that is most often fixed inside a metal shell. This<br />
makes a smoothly working joint that does not hurt.<br />
When should I have this type of surgery?<br />
Your orthopedic surgeon will decide if you may have the surgery. This will be based on<br />
your history, exam, X-rays and response to treatment that has been tried to now. Your<br />
surgeon will ask you to decide if your pain, stiffness and inability to do the things you wish<br />
warrant having surgery.<br />
Am I too old for this surgery?<br />
Age is not a problem if you are in reasonable health and have the wish to keep on living a<br />
productive, active life. You will be asked to see your personal doctor for his/her opinion<br />
about your general health before your surgery.