Total hip replacement (hip arthroplasty) is a major procedure, and the decision to undergo this surgery requires careful thought and consideration. If you’re a candidate for hip replacement, you may be wondering if you can enjoy a normal, active life following surgery. Every patient is different and all medical procedures come with risk, but here’s the general consensus: Yes, you can live a normal life after hip replacement!
Hip Replacement Success Rate
Hip replacement surgery involves removing worn, damaged components of the hip joint and replacing them with artificial implants, or prostheses, to restore comfortable movement and joint function. The overall success rate of hip replacement surgery is high; more than 95% of patients report experiencing relief from hip pain following the procedure. Furthermore, the 10-year success rate of hip replacement surgery is between 90% and 95%, and 80% to 85% after 20 years.
Recovery Following Hip Replacement
Much of the success of hip replacement surgery relies on how closely you adhere to your physician’s recovery guidelines. Specific guidelines can vary among patients, but general recommendations include:
- Avoiding high-impact activities, such as walking too soon or too often following surgery, climbing stairs, running, or lifting heavy objects
- Making smart changes around your house, such as moving furniture to better accommodate a walker or crutches and preparing a sleeping area on the first floor of your home
- Keeping your incision sites clean and dry, and promptly notifying your physician if signs of infection begin to appear
- Using all medications and mobility devices as directed
It’s important to remember that it takes time to regain strength and range of motion following hip replacement surgery. You should expect to require assistance with everyday activities for a few days or weeks after the procedure. In most cases, patients are able to resume normal activities (with a few exceptions) in about six weeks.
Our Approach to Total Hip Replacement Surgery
Another factor that significantly influences the success of hip replacement surgery is the skill of the surgeon you choose. If you live in Tampa, Florida, or a nearby community and want to partner with a highly regarded specialist, you can confidently turn to Dr. Daniel Murphy at Tampa Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Group.
Dr. Murphy is a board-certified orthopedic sports medicine surgeon with ample experience performing total hip replacement procedures. To ensure optimal results and the smallest incisions possible, he utilizes Stryker® Accolade hip prostheses that are engineered for enduring performance and are customized to each patient’s specific needs. Dr. Murphy also serves on the medical staffs of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the New York Yankees.
To learn more about hip replacement surgery at Tampa Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Group and why so many local patients choose us, contact our friendly professionals today. We’ll be glad to schedule you an appointment, or you can request an appointment online when it’s convenient for you. Most major health insurance plans are accepted at our orthopedic practice, including Medicare.
