Hip replacement
Hip surgery involves the replacement of parts of the joint (head of the femur and acetabulum) with artificial implants.
Hip replacement
Hip surgery involves the replacement of parts of the joint (head of the femur and acetabulum) with artificial implants.
Important information
- Hip replacement surgery can treat pain and stiffness for people suffering from arthritis, avascular necrosis or other injuries of the hip joint.
- During your surgery, Dr. Benoit will replace the two extremities of the damaged hip joint with artificial components.
- There are various surgical approaches for hip replacement surgery, including minimally invasive options that may be appropriate for some patients.
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Recovery and rehabilitation will contribute to restoring your mobility and allow you to return to your activities with less pain.
What is a Hip Replacement?
The surgery replaces parts of the joint with artificial implants. The ball (head of the femur) and socket (acetabulum) are both replaced. The goal of the procedure is to allow you to return to your daily activities and resume sports more comfortably.
Who Can Benefit From a Hip Prosthesis?
Dr. Benoit may recommend a hip replacement if you feel pain, inflammation and have severe hip joint damage as a result of the following conditions:
- Osteoarthritis (most common)
- Rheumatoid polyarthritis
- Osteonecrosis (avascular necrosis)
- Injury, such as a hip fracture
- Tumor in the hip joint
How to Know if you Need a Hip Replacement?
When hip pain affects your quality of life, it may be time to replace the hip. Signs of a decrease in quality of life include:
- Difficulty doing simple daily tasks such as walking, getting dressed, putting on shoes, going up and down stairs, simply standing up, etc.
- Inability to fully take part in activities you enjoy
- Inability to have good sleep quality because of pain
At first, Dr. Benoit may recommend other treatment options such as medication to relieve pain or inflammation, walking aids, intraarticular injections and physical therapy. If these do not alleviate the pain and stiffness, hip arthroplasty may be necessary to restore function and improve your quality of life.
The surgery
During a total hip arthroplasty, the ball and socket of the joint are replaced.
How Will Dr. Benoit Approach Your Hip?
There are three commonly used techniques to approach the hip joint:
- From the front (anterior approach to hip replacement)
- From the side (lateral approach to hip replacement)
- From the back (posterior approach to hip replacement)
What Size Will the Incision Be?
A minimally invasive hip replacement aims to reduce the impact of surgery on healthy muscles and blood vessels. Although the posterior approach to the hip was first promoted as a minimally invasive procedure, today orthopedic surgeons can use minimally invasive methods with all surgical techniques for the hip. Dr. Benoit will discuss the different methods that may deliver the best results for you.
Minimally Invasive Hip Replacement
When the surgery is minimally invasive, the hip joint is accessed through a small incision to minimize muscle trauma. This approach can have some advantages such as:
- Lower risk of muscle injury
- Less pain
- Faster and easier recovery
- Less limping
- Shorter hospital stay
- Lower risk of hip dislocation
Minimally invasive hip replacement is not for all patients. Your age, weight, physical condition, and other factors will inform Dr. Benoit’s recommendations in this regard.
Traditional Hip Replacement
A conventional hip replacement usually requires only one incision for the surgeon to access the hip: either from the side (lateral approach) or the back (posterior approach). Recovery after traditional hip replacement can take time since some muscles and tendons are injured during the procedure to reach the joint (the muscles and tendons are repaired once the hip implants are in place). You may be at risk of dislocation until all the supporting structures of your new hip are healed.
Discussion
During your consultation, Dr. Benoit will discuss the surgical approach best suited for you.
Components of a Hip Prosthesis
There are two parts:
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A ball is attached to a metal stem and is inserted into the thigh bone (femur).
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A metal cup and its interior lining for fixation to the female part of the hip joint (acetabulum), allowing the artificial joint to turn smoothly. The implants are made of metal or ceramic. During your consultation, Dr. Benoit will discuss which type of implant is right for you.
Implant Fixation to the Bone
Biological fixation involves a non-cemented implant that adheres to the bone by its porous coating, allowing the bone to naturally bond with the implant. For a cemented implant, fixation is achieved with bone cement which acts as glue. The cemented and non-cemented techniques are the two possible options to secure the implant.
Replacing Both Hips at the Same Time
The left and right hip can be replaced in a single procedure. An arthroplasty of both hips is also called a bilateral hip arthroplasty. If you have issues with both your hips, Dr. Benoit may recommend a dual hip replacement (bilateral) if you are in good health and can tolerate the procedure.
What Happens During a Hip Replacement Surgery?
Hip arthroplasties are performed in a surgical center. They are often completed as same day surgery, although you may need to stay for a night or two for observation or to deal with complications. Typically, a total hip arthroplasty without any complications includes the following steps:
- Once in the operating room, you will undergo general anesthesia (entire body) or anesthesia below the waist (epidural or spinal), according to the recommendation of your anesthesiologist and/or Dr. Benoit.
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Dr. Benoit will position you adequately for the surgery. The surgical site will then be cleaned with soap and sterilized with an antiseptic solution.
- Incision and approach to the hip.
- The head of the femur is removed.
- The pelvic cavity is prepared
- The cup is impacted within the cavity. The interior lining is installed.
- The femur is prepared and a trial implant is installed.
- Different trial implants are used to determine the best choice for you.
- The definitive implants are then installed.
- The hip is reassessed to make sure that it functions correctly.
- The tissue layers will be closed with sutures. The outermost skin layer will be closed with surgical glue. There will be no need to remove any sutures after the surgery.
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You will be transported to the recovery room.
Dr. Benoit will tell you when you can return home safely, which may be the same day, depending on your condition.
How long does a hip replacement surgery take?
On average, hip replacement surgeries take less than one hour. A dual hip arthroplasty may take more time. Complications during surgery may also extend the time of surgery.
Some imaging techniques, such as x-rays, may be necessary immediately after surgery or over the course of your rehabilitation to confirm that the procedure was successful and that your hip is healing well.
Recovery After a Hip Replacement
Recovery after a hip replacement starts immediately. You will be encouraged to get up and move around as soon as possible after the surgery. Patients without any other health issues can expect to return home as soon as they can walk, climb stairs and get in and out of a car.
Some patients may spend time in a rehabilitation center or hospital to prepare for an autonomous return to home life. Whether you are returning home or going to a rehabilitation center after the surgery, you will need physiotherapy to help you regain muscle strength and a good range of motion.
The physiotherapist can guide you on when you will be ready to walk with or without assistance and how to manage your pain. Your motivation and cooperation to complete your physical therapy sessions are essential for an efficient recovery process and the overall success of the surgery.
During your recovery be sure to:
- Keep the surgical area clean and dry. You will receive instructions before returning home.
- Take all your medication as indicated.
- Follow the recommendations of your physiotherapist and complete all the prescribed home exercises.
- Resume your normal eating habits unless indicated otherwise.
- Elevate your leg and use ice to control swelling.
- Do not drive until Dr. Benoit has authorized it.
- Clear liquid or blood may leak from your incision. This is normal in the first days after surgery.
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Immediately inform Dr. Benoit’s office if there is redness, swelling, increased drainage from the incision, a high fever, chills or intense pain.
What Are the Risks of a Hip Arthroplasty?
Most hip replacement surgeries are successful. Like any other surgery, there are some risks during and after hip arthroplasty:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Blood clots in the legs or lungs
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The discrepancy in leg length
- Injury to the neighboring nerves
- Fracture
- Continued pain or stiffness
- Dislocation
- Prosthetic loosening or wear
- Joint pain that is not relieved (this may be temporary or permanent)
There may be other risks depending on your overall health.
After the Surgery, Inform Your Physician if you Notice One of the Following:
- Fever
- Redness, swelling, bleeding or drainage at the site of the incision that does not stop after a few days
- Increased pain around the incision area
- Pain in the lower leg that is not linked to the incision
- New or increased swelling of the lower part of the leg
Call 911 or Go to the
Emergency if you Feel:
- Chest pains
- Shortness of breath
- Extreme hip pain that suddenly makes it impossible to move (dislocation of the prosthesis).
Hip Surgery Doctors: Hip Replacement Surgery in Montreal
Do you have crippling hip pain that interferes with your everyday activities? Dr. Benoit Benoit is a renowned orthopedic hip specialist and hip surgeon in Montreal. Dr. Benoit focuses on helping patients restore mobility and enhance their quality of life while providing hip replacement operations.
Our team of experts
Dr. Benoit Benoit collaborates with a team of highly qualified and experienced orthopedic specialists. As an assistant professor of surgery at the University of Montreal, Dr. Benoit has more than 14 years of professional experience. He has a proven track record in hip and knee surgeries and has contributed significantly to the medical community through numerous scientific publications. In addition to actively mentoring resident trainees and international surgeons, Dr. Benoit is dedicated to providing top-notch treatment.
Hip Surgery Doctors in Montreal: Your Path to Pain-Free Living
Various conditions, including osteoarthritis, avascular necrosis, and hip injuries, can cause hip pain. Dr. Benoit and his team are here to guide you through hip replacement surgery, a highly effective solution to alleviate your pain and improve your quality of life.
Hip Replacement Surgery
Hip replacement surgery, or total hip arthroplasty, is when damaged hip joint components are replaced with artificial implants. This surgical intervention can significantly reduce or eliminate pain, enhance mobility, and enable you to resume your daily activities comfortably.
Expertise and Surgical Precision
Dr. Benoit and his multidisciplinary team specialize in the patient care journey in orthopedics. They have successfully performed numerous hip replacement surgeries with precision and care, helping thousands of patients regain their independence and mobility
Private Hip Replacement Montreal
At our state-of-the-art facility in Montreal, we offer private hip replacement services, ensuring that you receive personalized attention and care throughout your journey. Dr. Benoit and his team prioritize your comfort and well-being from the initial consultation to post-surgery follow-ups.
Implant Options for Optimal Results
Dr. Benoit discusses hip replacement surgery and implant options with patients individually. These implants include a ball attached to a metal stem and a cup for the hip joint’s acetabulum. The choice of implant and fixation method (cemented or uncemented) is tailored to your unique needs, ensuring the best possible outcome.
Private Dual Hip Replacement
If you’re experiencing hip issues in both hips, Dr. Benoit may recommend a dual hip replacement, also known as a bilateral hip arthroplasty. This procedure can be performed in a single surgery session, saving time and reducing overall recovery.
What to Expect During Surgery
Hip replacement surgery typically lasts less than an hour, with variations based on individual cases. Dr. Benoit and his team follow a meticulous process, from anesthesia administration to implant placement, ensuring the best results and a swift recovery.
Hip Orthopedic Surgeon
Hip replacement doctors offer a wide range of hip replacement services according to your specific needs, including:
Total Hip Arthroplasty: This is the standard hip replacement procedure where damaged hip joint components are replaced with high-quality artificial implants, allowing you to regain mobility.
Minimally Invasive Approaches: Dr. Benoit is well-versed in minimally invasive techniques that minimize muscle trauma, reduce pain, accelerate recovery, and lower the risk of complications.
Bilateral Hip Arthroplasty: Dr. Benoit can perform a dual hip replacement in a single procedure, streamlining your recovery if both hips require attention.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Your journey to mobility continues after surgery. Dr. Benoit and his team emphasize early mobility and personalized rehabilitation programs. Whether you’re returning home or seeking rehabilitation, our dedicated physiotherapists will guide you through exercises and monitor your progress to ensure a successful recovery.
Your Safety is Our Priority
While hip replacement surgery is generally safe, Dr. Benoit and his team are prepared for potential complications. Continuous monitoring and immediate medical attention are standard procedures to ensure your safety.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is hip replacement surgery painful?
Hip replacement surgery is carried out under anesthesia to ensure a pain-free experience during the procedure. Any discomfort following the surgery can be effectively alleviated with appropriate medication.
How long does recovery from a hip replacement procedure take?
Recovery timeframes vary, but most patients can resume their regular routines in weeks or months.
Is there a minimum or maximum age for hip replacement surgery?
There is no specific age limit for hip replacement surgery. Dr. Benoit assesses each patient separately to decide whether the operation is necessary.
What kind of anesthetic is applied during a hip replacement?
You can choose between general anesthesia (whole body) and regional anesthesia (spinal or epidural) based on your unique medical history and preferences.
Can I resume my athletic and physical pursuits after having a hip replacement?
Once fully recovered, patients can frequently start participating in sports and other physical activities. When it is safe to do so, Dr. Benoit will offer advice.
Hip Surgeon Montreal: Embark on Your Journey to a Pain-Free Life
Take the first step towards a pain-free life and renewed mobility by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Benoit and his expert team of orthopedic specialists. Your journey to a better quality of life begins here.