Hip Replacement Surgery

Arthritis Pain Management

Our Arthritis Non-operative Pain Management program can provide non-operative treatment options to reduce or eliminate your joint pain. We start with an individual assessment then we create a custom treatment program that's right for you. Non-operative orthopaedic doctors can help you get back to your favorite activities. 

What Is a Total Hip Replacement?

If your surgeon recommends a total hip replacement, they will choose the best artificial hip for you, which has four components:

• A cup that replaces your hip socket.
• A liner that fits into the cup.
• A ball that replaces the damaged one at the top of your thighbone.
• A stem that is attached in the shaft of the thighbone to add stability.

The components can be made from materials such as titanium, metal alloys, high-grade plastics, and ceramics and are secured using special surfaces that allow bone to bond directly to the implant. Fixation with cement is only used in special situations.

Mini-Posterior Approach

In the mini-posterior approach, the hip joint is accessed through an incision along the side of the hip, allowing the surgeon to enter the hip through the back of the joint.

Anterior Approach

The anterior approach involves accessing the hip joint via an incision more in the front of the hip. During this procedure, a special table is used to position the leg for surgery along with x-ray imaging to visualize the hip.

Hip Resurfacing

Hip resurfacing places a metal cap over your natural hip ball and an artificial liner inside the hip socket. This method is occasionally used for younger male patients.

Orthopaedics & Physical Performance offers world-class medical and surgical support for patients experiencing joint pain and considering a joint replacement.

Fellowship Trained

Only at URochester Medicine Orthopaedics and Physical Performance can you find all surgeons board certified and fellowship trained. Because of our surgeons advanced training and expertise, we treat the most complex medical conditions, including complicated revision surgeries.

Exceptional Experience

Our team will coach and care for you from preparation through recovery, with your recovery team by your side every step of your journey. You can expect:

• Advanced Care and Comfortable Environment
  Our patients have access to the newest treatments and most advanced orthopaedic operating rooms. Our hospitals are easy to navigate and provide the compassionate care you expect.
• Exceptional Outcomes and High Satisfaction
  Our patients routinely give us high satisfaction ratings based on their outcomes and overall experience, which places your privacy and comfort as priorities.
• Dedicated Anesthesia and Pain Management
  The anesthesiologists specialize in joint replacement surgery and tailor medication protocols to each patient, helping you get back on your feet sooner and recover with fewer side effects.

Recognized for Excellence

Our hospitals are recognized for excellence in Hip and Knee Replacement and Rehabilitation by the Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval, the national organization that sets exacting health care standards for surgery.

During Surgery

Your time in surgery is about 2-3 hours. The time from the operating room to the postanesthesia care unit (PACU), where you will recover from anesthesia, is usually about 3-4 hours.

After Surgery

We prioritize effective pain medicine and strategies to ease post-operative discomfort. Your nurse will reassess your pain to ensure it is being appropriately controlled.

As a convenience, your discharge prescriptions may be filled at the hospital pharmacy. Your co-pays and price will be the same as at your home pharmacy, and we can easily send any refills there. Your list of medications can be found on your After Visit Summary or in MyChart.

Most patients will go directly home the day after surgery. A social worker will work with you to discuss your discharge, and your nurse will review your discharge instructions with you.

Recovery

Hip total joint replacements can have a tremendous impact on your quality of life. Though there is an adjustment period, you will get about 80% of the benefit in the first 3 months. Keep in mind that it will take a year for your joint to reach its full potential. After your joint replacement surgery, it is important to follow up with your orthopaedic surgeon on a regular basis.

Physical Therapy (PT)

Your Physical Therapists will:

• Teach and assist you to move
• Help to minimize your pain
• Promote independence
• Restore range of motion and strength
• Provide instructions specified by your surgeon

Physical Therapy is key to your quick recovery. The goal of physical therapy after surgery is to help you regain your hip mobility and strength. Complying with your exercise plan is critical to your recovery.

Occupational Therapy (OT)

Occupational therapists focus on functional tasks, or Activities of Daily Living (ADL), and helping you achieve independence. Your occupational therapist will prepare you to:

• Take care of yourself, including bathing, dressing, and toileting tasks 
• Return to your normal routine at home