Our Summary

This research paper discusses hip dislocation, a common issue that can happen after a total hip replacement surgery. The rate of this happening varies, but it can occur in up to 28% of cases for people who have had more than one hip surgery. Hip dislocations can be grouped into three categories: early, intermediate, and late.

Most of these cases (about two-thirds) can be treated without additional surgery. However, the rest require more surgical procedures. Before deciding on the right treatment, it’s crucial to understand what caused the dislocation. Many factors can contribute to this issue, including the way the surgery was done, the size of the replaced hip joint, how the new hip aligns with the rest of the body, and the condition of the soft tissues surrounding the hip.

Identifying a dislocated hip isn’t too difficult since the symptoms are quite typical. Once a dislocated hip is found, the first step is to adjust the implant without surgery. After this, a CT scan is needed to figure out the best surgical options if the hip keeps dislocating. The aim is to prevent further dislocations, which can lead to more surgeries.

The paper suggests using a systematic approach for treatment, but emphasizes that the best way to handle this issue is to prevent it from happening in the first place.

FAQs

  1. What is the rate of hip dislocation after a total hip replacement surgery?
  2. How can you identify a dislocated hip after a hip replacement surgery?
  3. What are the common causes of hip dislocation following a hip replacement surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about hip replacement is to follow their post-operative instructions carefully, including physical therapy exercises and movement restrictions. It’s important to avoid certain movements that could potentially dislocate the hip, such as bending past 90 degrees, crossing the legs, or twisting the hip. Being mindful of these restrictions can help prevent hip dislocation and promote a successful recovery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for hip replacement surgery are those who suffer from severe hip pain and stiffness that affects their daily activities and quality of life. Common conditions that may lead to hip replacement include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, avascular necrosis, hip fractures, and other hip injuries. Patients who have not responded to conservative treatments such as medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications may be candidates for hip replacement surgery.

It is important for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider to determine if they are appropriate candidates for hip replacement surgery. Factors such as age, overall health, medical history, and lifestyle should be taken into consideration when making this decision. In some cases, patients may need to make lifestyle changes or undergo additional medical treatments before they are deemed suitable for surgery.

Overall, hip replacement surgery is a common and effective procedure for improving mobility and reducing pain in patients with hip conditions. It is important for patients to work closely with their healthcare providers to determine the best treatment plan for their individual needs and to minimize the risk of complications such as hip dislocation after surgery.

Timeline

Before a hip replacement surgery, a patient may experience chronic hip pain, limited mobility, difficulty walking, and decreased quality of life. They may have tried conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications, and cortisone injections without success.

After hip replacement surgery, the patient typically experiences immediate relief from hip pain and improved mobility. However, they may also experience some post-operative pain, swelling, and stiffness for the first few weeks. Physical therapy is usually recommended to help the patient regain strength and range of motion in the hip.

In the months following surgery, the patient continues to work on strengthening the hip and may gradually return to normal activities. It is important for the patient to follow their doctor’s recommendations for post-operative care and to attend follow-up appointments to monitor their progress.

In the event of a hip dislocation after surgery, the patient may experience sudden severe pain, inability to put weight on the affected leg, and a noticeable deformity in the hip joint. Treatment may involve manual reduction of the hip joint, imaging tests to assess the cause of the dislocation, and possibly additional surgery to prevent further dislocations.

Overall, the goal of hip replacement surgery is to improve the patient’s quality of life and mobility, and with proper care and monitoring, most patients can expect a successful outcome and return to their normal activities.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about hip replacement and the risk of hip dislocation include:

  1. What is my individual risk of experiencing hip dislocation after hip replacement surgery?
  2. What factors may increase my risk of hip dislocation?
  3. What steps can be taken during surgery to minimize the risk of hip dislocation?
  4. What symptoms should I be aware of that may indicate a dislocated hip?
  5. What non-surgical treatments are available if my hip becomes dislocated?
  6. What surgical options are available if non-surgical treatments are unsuccessful?
  7. How will the decision on the best treatment approach be made if my hip dislocates?
  8. What can I do to help prevent hip dislocation after surgery?
  9. Are there any specific activities or movements I should avoid to reduce the risk of hip dislocation?
  10. What follow-up care and monitoring will be necessary to ensure the long-term success of my hip replacement surgery?

Reference

Authors: Falez F, Papalia M, Favetti F, Panegrossi G, Casella F, Mazzotta G. Journal: Int Orthop. 2017 Mar;41(3):635-644. doi: 10.1007/s00264-016-3345-6. Epub 2016 Dec 20. PMID: 27999925