Hip replacement is an effective cure for patients experiencing excruciating pain in their hip joints and reduced mobility. Although most patients who consider total hip replacement surgery are above 65, it doesn’t mean the procedure is for the elderly only. Elders are at an increased risk of osteoarthritis, which happens when the joints wear down with their age, requiring complete or partial hip replacement.
When Should You Consider Hip Replacement?
There’s no ideal age for total hip replacement. Your orthopedic surgeon will consider several factors to determine whether or not you are a good candidate for the procedure. They might advise you against the surgery if you have existing medical conditions that could interfere with the surgery. Here’s when hip replacement seems an ideal option:
- Osteoarthritis that makes walking, bending, and other physical movements painful
- Inability to move your hip joints like usual
- Pain in the hip when resting
- Stiff hip joints
- Non-invasive medical procedures fail to offer any relief
In most cases, patients consider a hip replacement because of the severe pain that persists when resting. The pain is felt in the groin and the buttocks area, but can slowly radiate to the upper thigh. In addition, restricted movements can be the reason why an osteoarthritis patient or someone with a severe hip injury might be advised a total hip replacement surgery.
Does Age Affect the Outcome of Hip Replacement?
Age is mostly never an issue for patients planning to undergo hip replacement. Your healthcare provider will advise against the procedure if you are diagnosed with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes, infections, neurological conditions, dementia, and heart diseases.
Patients between 18 and 70 years are considered fit for total hip replacement. In fact, people beyond that age can consider this invasive medical procedure given that they are physically and mentally fit, and have a low risk of post-surgical complications. So, if you are 45 or above, you are eligible for hip replacement. The implants can last for up to 20 years and longer, based on your lifestyle.
Robot-Assisted Hip Replacement
The prosthetics and other tools used in the procedure are of advanced quality and are carefully implanted to ensure the best outcome. Moreover, robot-assisted hip replacement procedures have been gaining immense popularity and are considered safer alternatives to traditional surgical procedures.
Robot-assisted hip replacement involves the use of a robotic arm, which guides the surgeon to make precise incisions. The 3D scans of the patient help the surgeon collect the unique hip anatomy, so they can personalize the treatment accordingly.
How Soon Can You Recover From Hip Replacement Surgery?
The total ACL surgery doctor in Thane will discuss the recovery time, possible complications, and the steps to speed up your recovery and restore your mobility. Usually, it takes 2-4 weeks to resume your routine functions, but complete recovery can take up to 6 months and longer depending on your age, health, type of hip replacement, and lifestyle. Consult an orthopedic surgeon to understand the risk and recovery.
