Posterior Hip Replacement
Millions of people all over the world have had hip replacement surgeries. A high percentage of these surgeries are successful in reducing pain and increasing a patient’s ability to function. Hip surgeries have been more successful in recent years because of the advancement of the surgery itself. One way hip replacements have improved is the way surgeries have changed to better protect the patient and their bodies. An example of this is called posterior hip replacement.
What is Hip Replacement?
When a person experiences hip pain, it is very difficult and frustrating. This kind of pain affects every part of your life. Hip pain is usually accompanied by other issues like bone spurs or growths, broken or fractured bones, arthritis, or even injury. After trying other options like physical therapy, medications, injections, and more, some patients still experience pain and discomfort. In these cases, depending on the health of the patient and the exact nature of the hip problem, their doctor may recommend hip replacement surgery.
Hip Replacement Implants
The surgery itself can have several options due to the kinds of implants available. There are implants that only enhance the hip joint. This is called hip resurfacing, but the surgical procedure is very similar. There are also surgeries that completely or partially replace the hip joint. These implants vary based on the needs of the patient, but they all require an incision to be made. Regardless of the type of implant, posterior hip replacement refers to the type of cut and the way the surgery is performed to place the prosthetics. This can be ideal for most patients.
What is Posterior Hip Replacement?
A posterior hip replacement is mostly set apart by the placement of the incision. In posterior hip replacement, the incision is made over the back of the hip, near the buttocks. This is the opposite of anterior hip replacement, in which the incision is made over the front of the hip. Posterior hip replacement is the most common form of hip replacement surgery. However, not every patient can tolerate the posterior incision. This may be due to the actual status of the hip joint or due to the health of the patient.
Benefits of Posterior Hip Replacement
There are several reasons why this surgery is beneficial and preferable to other options. One of these is that the posterior incision is generally cut just between some of the most important muscles which are used for walking and sitting and other essential movements. In fact, no muscles are severed to reach the hip. This means that the patient can begin walking shortly after surgery and can start recovery more quickly. Another reason why this surgery is preferable is that the hip is highly visible during the surgery. This generally leads to a better placement of the implant and a higher success rate. This surgery is also classified as minimally invasive. The smaller the incision, the lower the chance of infection or complications. This is why posterior hip replacement is often the option most surgeons choose.
Other Options
Some patients are not good candidates for posterior hip replacement, which can be due to several factors. One is that this surgery does have the risk of dislocation occurring. This can happen with really any kind of hip surgery, but it does happen. One of the main disadvantages of the posterior approach has to do with the recovery. Some patients find that recovery for the first four weeks or so is more frustrating. These patients are asked to sit in a high chair for the first several weeks and are often asked not to drive for several weeks. Some patients cannot afford this change or do not like it. Generally after the first month, patients from any surgical approach are about in the same stage of healing.
Hip Replacement and You
If your doctor recommends a hip replacement surgery, go over all of the available options. Be informed and ask questions! Having a good doctor who will explain all of the best options and situations for you is essential. Knowing the benefits of posterior hip replacement vs other forms is important. Hip replacement is a big step for many patients, and you need the right team to help you understand what options are available and why they might work best for you. Posterior hip replacement is a safe, common, and overall ideal surgery that often is the best choice for a good recovery and long term health and happiness.