Our Services / Hip Replacement

What is a hip replacement?

A hip replacement is a procedure that involves removing the hip joint and any damaged supporting tissues to encourage healthy function and relieve chronic pain. Your surgeon replaces the damaged materials with artificial alternatives. The team at Coastal Ortho performs arthroscopic surgery as a less invasive alternative to open surgery. 

Why would I need a hip replacement?

Hip replacement surgery is typically the last course of action if you have an injury or degenerative condition that’s beyond nonsurgical repair. Replacing the femoral head at the top of the thigh and damaged cartilage with more comfortable prosthetics can relieve your pain and improve mobility. 

Common causes of chronic hip pain include:

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a type of wear-and-tear arthritis that occurs when the cartilage deteriorates. It can cause inflammation around the joint and reduce its range of motion.

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the inner lining of your joints.

Osteonecrosis

Osteonecrosis is a serious condition in which an injury to the hip slows the blood supply to the femoral head. A hip fracture or dislocation can cause substantial damage that affects blood flow and leads to a collapsed bone.

Am I a candidate for hip replacement?

If you’ve already tried nonsurgical interventions without success, such as joint fluid injections, physical therapy, and aquatic therapy, the team at Coastal Ortho may recommend a hip replacement if you experience:

• Hip pain that limits your mobility
• Hip pain that interferes with your everyday activities
• Stiffness in the hip
• Hip pain that continues when you’re at rest

Opting for a hip replacement now may help prevent the need for more invasive surgery in the future.

What happens during hip replacement surgery?

After administering anesthesia, your surgeon at Coastal Ortho makes a small incision either through the side or back of the hip. Next, they insert an arthroscope — a device that contains a small camera — and remove the damaged hip components. An outside monitor allows your doctor to see inside your hip without creating a large incision.

Finally, your surgeon replaces your hip with a sturdier prosthetic and closes the incision. The entire procedure takes about 1-2 hours, depending on the extent of the damage.

To learn more about hip replacement surgery, call Coastal Ortho or schedule an appointment online today.