Explore Traditional Hip Replacement

During hip replacement surgery, the surgeon removes a painful hip joint and replaces it with an artificial joint. The goal is to relieve pain and enable you to walk and move with ease, aided by a new hip joint made of metal or plastic components.

Learn more about traditional hip replacement here.

What to Expect From Traditional Hip Replacement Surgery?

Arthritis or a broken hip are the most common reasons for traditional hip replacement. The orthopedic team’s goal is to get you back on your feet as soon as possible, able to experience pain-free movement and the activities you once enjoyed.

Physical therapy usually begins the day after surgery, and it’s likely you will be able to walk with a walker, crutches or cane within a few days. You will continue physical therapy for weeks to months after your surgery.

You and your surgeon will decide when the time is right for traditional hip replacement surgery.

A cut is made along the side of the hip and the muscles connected to the top of the thighbone are moved to expose the hip joint. Next, the ball portion of the joint is removed by cutting the thighbone with a saw. An artificial joint is attached to the thighbone using either cement or a special material that allows the remaining bone to attach to the new joint.

Any damaged cartilage is removed to prepare the surface of the hipbone and the replacement socket part is attached to the hipbone. The new ball part of the thighbone is then inserted into the socket part of the hip. A drain may be put in to help drain any fluid. The muscles are then reattached and the incision is closed.

Physical therapy usually begins the day after surgery and within days many patients are able to walk with a walker, crutches, or a cane. You will continue physical therapy for weeks to months following the surgery.