When is Hip Hemiarthroplasty Necessary?
Hip hemiarthroplasty may be recommended in several situations, including:
- Hip Fractures: Particularly intracapsular fractures where the blood supply to the femoral head is compromised, making healing difficult.
- Avascular Necrosis: When the femoral head has died due to lack of blood supply, but the acetabulum is still healthy.
- Arthritis: Severe osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis that primarily affects the femoral head while sparing the acetabulum.
- Traumatic Injuries: Significant damage to the femoral head due to trauma, where other treatments are not viable.
The Surgical Procedure
During hip hemiarthroplasty, anesthesia is administered to ensure the patient is comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure. A small incision is made on the side of the hip to access the joint. The damaged part of the hip joint, specifically the femoral head, is carefully removed. A prosthetic femoral head is then inserted into the femur. This implant is designed to fit securely and restore the function of the hip. Once the new femoral head is in place, the incision is closed with sutures or staples and a protective bandage is applied.
Excel Health’s Approach
At Excel Health, we prioritize minimally invasive techniques for hip hemiarthroplasty to ensure our patients experience less pain, smaller incisions, and quicker recovery times. Our surgical team uses state-of-the-art technology and advanced methods to provide the best possible outcomes. Each treatment plan is personalized to meet the individual needs of our patients, ensuring comprehensive care from pre-surgery preparation through post-surgery rehabilitation.
Post-surgical Care and Recovery
Recovery from hip hemiarthroplasty involves a combination of rest, physical therapy, and follow-up care. Pain and anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed to help manage discomfort immediately after surgery.
A physical therapy program begins shortly after surgery to restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion, including exercises to improve mobility and prevent complications such as blood clots.
Patients are advised to avoid high-impact activities and heavy lifting for several weeks, and using assistive devices like crutches or walkers may be necessary during the initial recovery period. Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon are essential to monitor healing and ensure the prosthetic implant is functioning correctly.
Contact Us
If you are experiencing hip pain or have been diagnosed with a condition that may require hip hemiarthroplasty, contact Excel Health for a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan. Our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way, ensuring you receive the highest quality care to regain mobility and improve your quality of life.