What is Minimally Invasive Total Hip Replacement?
Hip replacement procedures use prosthetic components made of special metals. The ball is replaced with a metal stem and ball. The socket is replaced with metal. The component articulates with a liner that could be made of plastic, ceramic or metal. The components are usually press fitted into the bone; occasionally they are secured with screws or cement specifically designed for bone. The hip replacement procedure is conducted under general or regional anesthesia. After your procedure, you will have an incision approximately three inches long on the outside part of the thigh. Usually two to three days in the hospital are all that is required. You will be standing and walking the first day after surgery. Joint replacement requires some physical therapy, which begins the first day after surgery as well. Surgical soreness and swelling may take a few weeks to subside; however, within several weeks you should be able to return to normal activities.
