Adam Smith 
Do you struggle with hip pain? It can be an extremely debilitating symptom, making it difficult to perform even the most basic daily activities.
Do you struggle with hip pain? It can be an extremely debilitating symptom, making it difficult to perform even the most basic daily activities. If you are an older individual living in Ireland and suffering from severe hip pain, you may have considered undergoing hip replacement surgery to relieve your symptoms.
Unfortunately, getting a hip replacement in Ireland is often costly and time-consuming, with long waiting lists and limited options. However, you don’t have to suffer in silence. Kardiolita, a renowned hospital in Lithuania, offers affordable, reliable, and safe hip replacement surgeries for international patients.
In this article:
- What is Hip Replacement Surgery?
- When is a Hip Replacement Needed
- How Long Does It Takes to Recover from Hip Replacement Surgery
- What Happens During a Hip Replacement
- Hip Replacement Surgery at Kardiolita Hospital
What is Hip Replacement Surgery?
Hip replacement surgery is a surgical procedure involving the repair of a damaged or diseased hip joint with an artificial replacement known as a prosthesis or implant. The surgery is performed to relieve chronic hip pain and improve mobility after non-surgical options, such as medication or physical therapy, have proven unsuccessful.
The hip joint is a ball-and-socket joint connecting the thighbone (femur) to the pelvis. The ball of the joint, known as the femoral head, fits tightly inside the socket of the pelvic bone or the acetabulum. Together, the hip joint allows for stable, smooth leg movement and support.
Hip replacement surgery replaces a damaged femoral head with a metal or ceramic system. Depending on the scale of the damage, some or all of the joint is removed.
When is a Hip Replacement Needed
Your doctor or surgeon will recommend hip replacement surgery only after conservative treatment options have failed. Surgery carries numerous risks and should only be performed as a final option. Common conditions that require a replacement include:
- Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease caused by the cartilage covering the femoral head and acetabulum wearing down, resulting in stiffness and chronic pain (as the bone rubs against each other). It is the most common cause of hip replacement surgery.
- Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory arthritis caused by an autoimmune reaction (the body’s defenses attack the joint tissue). Symptoms include pain, inflammation, and fever. RA is progressive and may require surgery to fix the affected joints.
- Hip fractures are a particularly severe form of break, causing severe pain and reduced movement.
- Septic arthritis occurs when bacteria or viruses infect the joint. Swelling, pain, and inflammation can cause permanent damage to the joint requiring a replacement (only in rare cases).
Benefits of Hip Replacement Surgery
- Reduced pain: The surgery significantly reduces hip pain, making it easier to perform daily activities. Patients often experience immediate pain relief, although recovery can take several weeks.
- Improved mobility: Hip replacement surgery improves hip mobility and range of motion, allowing patients to return to regular activity.
- Improved quality of life: After surgery, patients can enjoy a better quality of life without being held back by their disability. They report feeling happier and more active.
- Long-lasting results: Hip replacement surgery can significantly reduce pain and improve mobility for up to 15 years after the procedure, giving you long-lasting results.
What Happens During a Hip Replacement?
Preparation
Your doctor or surgeon will run a battery of tests and assessments to determine if you’re a good candidate for surgery. They will also assess your past medical history and your current condition.
To prepare for surgery, follow these steps:
- Maintain a healthy weight
- If possible, stop smoking several weeks before the operation
- Take a bath or shower on the day of the operation
- Practice exercises to strengthen the joint
During the Surgery
All surgeries of this complexity occur under general anaesthetic, so you’ll be asleep for the entire procedure. Your surgeon will make an incision in the hip area and remove the damaged bone and cartilage. Next, they’ll insert your new prosthesis, using screws or cement to bond it in place. Finally, they’ll close the skin and take you to a ward for recovery. The operation takes around 1-2 hours.
Types of Hip Replacement
There are two main types of hip replacement surgery: total hip replacement and partial hip replacement.
- Total hip replacement involves replacing the entire hip joint.
- Partial hip replacement involves replacing only the damaged part of the joint.
Your surgeon will recommend the best option for you based on the extent of the damage.
After the Surgery
After hip replacement surgery, you’ll spend a few days in the hospital to let your hip settle. You’ll get pain medication and go through several assessments. Expect to use crutches or a walker for the first few weeks and have a large dressing and drain to prevent fluid buildup. If you have any questions, don’t be afraid to ask your doctor or nurse – they’re there to help you out.
How Long Does It Takes to Recover from Hip Replacement Surgery
Recovery from hip replacement surgery takes up to six weeks, depending on underlying conditions and physical fitness. However, while you may be able to move around unaided after this point, it can take up to 12 months to return to normal activities.
In this phase, physical therapy, a good diet, and lifestyle changes are critical for a successful recovery. Kardiolita Hospital in Lithuania provides affordable, safe, and reliable care for Irish patients seeking hip replacement surgery, with experienced orthopedic surgeons and personalized support throughout recovery.
Hip Replacement Surgery at Kardiolita Hospital
Undergoing hip replacement surgery at Kardiolita Hospital in Lithuania is a smart choice for Irish patients seeking an affordable, safe, and reliable option. Our team of experienced orthopedic surgeons specialises in hip replacement surgery and provides personalized care and support throughout recovery.
Getting a hip replacement in Ireland can be expensive and challenging, but Kardiolita Hospital offers a full range of services, including pre-operative assessments, surgery, and post-operative rehabilitation, at a fraction of the cost of other countries. If you’re considering surgery, book a consultation with Kardiolita Hospital today.
Don’t let hip pain limit your life any longer. Contact Kardiolita Hospital today to learn more about our surgical options and take the first step towards a pain-free life.
