The condition
Hip arthritis is the wearing away of the smooth cartilage that covers the ball and socket of the hip. As it thins, bone rubs on bone, causing groin or hip pain, stiffness, and a limp, and making walking, putting on shoes, and sleeping difficult.
The surgery
Total hip replacement is done through an incision at the front, side, or back of the hip; unless otherwise specified, Dr. Wollenman will perform this through the front. The worn ball is replaced with a metal or ceramic ball on a metal stem in the thigh bone, and the socket is lined with a metal shell and a smooth ultra-strength plastic liner.
Recovery at a glance
- Walking
- Full weight right away with a walker, moving to a cane as balance allows; most walk without a device or a limp between 2 and 6 weeks.
- Hip precautions
- Usually none. If precautions are needed for your approach, they will be explained before you go home.
- Daily life
- Desk work often between 2 and 4 weeks. Swimming once the incision is fully healed (typically 4–6 weeks). No driving while taking narcotic pain medication.
- Activity
- Return to work, driving, and recreation typically by 6–12 weeks. Walking, cycling, swimming, golf, and doubles tennis are encouraged; While running and impact sports can generally be performed once fully recovered, limitations on duration/intensity may be recommended.
A general guide. Your restrictions and timeline may change based on what is found and done at surgery.
Risks & benefits
Benefits: Most patients have major pain relief and walk and sleep better. Risks are uncommon and include infection, blood clots, dislocation, a leg-length difference, loosening or wear of the implants, infection of the implant, fracture around the implant, injury to nearby structures (such as nerves or blood vessels), stiffness, persistent pain, and the need for further surgery. These will be reviewed with you in detail before surgery.
Patient Surgical Information
Open, save or print. Bring your questions to your pre-op visit.
Before & after every surgery