Hip Replacement Surgery

Expertise in Anterior Hip Replacement Surgery

Hip replacement (also called hip arthroplasty) is a common surgical procedure which replaces the natural hip joint with a prosthetic replica, usually made of metal, ceramic and plastic components. This can greatly reduce pain caused by arthritis, severe injury, and other joint conditions.

Dr Jason Ward has specific experience in anterior, mini-invasive, muscle-sparing hip replacement surgery. This technique is often preferred by patients, with the aim of more rapid recovery times.

Dr Jason Ward provides assessment and consultation for hip replacement procedures in his rooms and operates across Adelaide and South Australia. Contact his clinics to book an appointment.

Preparing for a Hip Replacement

There are a number of things you can do in the lead up to your hip replacement surgery in order to simplify your recovery and make life a little easier during your recovery period.

Your mobility will decrease post-surgery. You may need to move furniture or install safety equipment in your house.

Getting in shape before your hip replacement can make your recovery easier. Working your arms and upper body can help you use walking aids after the surgery, and losing weight can reduce the stress on your hip.

Before surgery is the best time to clarify things. Write your questions down and bring them to your consultation to help you remember.

Using tobacco products slows your recovery by increasing the amount of time it takes for wounds to heal.

Learning how to correctly do your physical therapy exercises before your surgery can make them easier to do correctly afterwards.

You will likely need time off work to recover from your hip replacement surgery, which is best planned in advance.

What to Expect

Before your surgery you will be required to fast for 6 hours to ensure your safety under anaesthesia. You will need to discuss your medications with your doctor to determine whether you need to temporarily stop taking them for your knee replacement.

On the day of your surgery, you will be required to arrive a few hours before the procedure. This will allow time for check-in and any required surgery preparation. Before your surgery you will meet with an anaesthetist to discuss and administer your anaesthetic for the procedure.

During the hip replacement procedure, Dr Jason Ward will remove the damaged bone and cartilage from the hip joint and attach implants to your pelvis and the top of your thigh bone. The wound is then closed with sutures. The entire surgery will usually take 1-2 hours.

Dr Ward’s particular interest is in anterior hip replacement. He has extensive expertise in this technique which can result in more rapid recovery.

Recovery time

Following the surgery, you will generally remain in the hospital for 3-5 days. During this time you will receive intravenous medication and assistance from nursing staff. You will have a sterile dressing placed over the surgical site and may have some swelling.

Your surgeon will usually ask you to start moving and using your newly-replaced hip joint within a few hours of surgery. The joint is stable immediately after the procedure, but weakened muscles and tissue will require a longer physiotherapy process to return to full strength.

On your return home, you will generally be prescribed oral pain medication. Dr Jason Ward and his team will be in touch to schedule a follow-up appointment around six weeks after your hip replacement.

Treatments

Hip replacement procedures vary widely in technique and not all approaches will be suitable for all patients. Dr Jason Ward provides individualised hip replacement options suited to a range of hip conditions.