Hip reconstruction surgery is typically recommended to patients who no longer respond to conservative forms of treatment for hip injuries or arthritis damage. There are several surgeries used to reconstruct or repair the hip joint. Depending on what the surgeon thinks is best for you, you may be recommend to get a hip arthroscopy or total hip replacement surgery.
Hip arthroscopy involves making repairs to a damaged hip joint while total hip replacement surgery involves replacing the damaged hip joint with artificial parts. With advancements in the field of joint reconstruction surgery, both procedures can be completed with minimally invasive techniques.
If you are curious about what recovery from a hip reconstruction is like, here’s what to expect.
Hip Reconstruction Surgery Recovery
Recovery from hip reconstruction surgery will involve a hospital stay for at least a few days. The doctor and nurses will keep you as comfortable as possible. If you get the surgery done with minimally invasive techniques, your hospital stay (and total recovery) will likely be shorter. Talk to your surgeon about whether you are a good candidate for minimally invasive hip reconstruction surgery.
Hospital Stay
After your surgery, you may be asked to stay in the hospital for a day or two, so the surgeon can monitor your health. With minimally invasive techniques, your hospital stay will likely be shorter. While at the hospital, you will be asked to begin moving pretty soon after the surgery. A physical or occupational therapist will help you move and walk. Once you are able to walk a bit and your surgeon gives you the all-clear, you can go home.
Walking
Typically, most patients are unable to walk unassisted for 3 to 6 weeks following hip reconstruction surgery. You will use crutches, a walker, pain medication, and other tools to help aid you in moving around without too much pain. You will use these things to help you move around at home for several weeks.
During pre-surgery planning, your surgeon will ask you to prepare your home for recovery. This means making sure your home is equipped with assistive devices to make things easier for you, such as shower chairs and bars, raised toilet seats, and bed rails. It also means having someone around to assist you in the first few days following the procedure. It’s imperative to avoid falls while you recover.
Physical Therapy
Once you return home, your surgeon will recommend you begin physical therapy soon after. Physical therapy will help reduce pain and make your hip stronger and more flexible and mobile. Your physical therapist will work with your surgeon to ensure your physical therapy routine increases gradually and is effective in your recovery journey.
Total healing from hip reconstruction surgery can take up to four months. However, you will resume low-intensity activities pretty soon after the procedure. Make sure to follow your surgeon and physical therapist’s instructions after your surgery. This will help shorten your recovery period and ensure you get the best results.
Hip Joint Reconstruction Surgeons in Maryland
At Orthopaedic Associates, we have 14 board-certified and fellowship-trained surgeons to address your hip pain using the latest in joint reconstruction technology.
From hip arthroplasty to total hip replacement surgery, we make sure you know your options and what each surgical procedure entails. We also provide the best rehabilitation services after the surgery, so you can recovery comfortably and quickly.
To schedule a consultation, call the Orthopaedic Associates at (440) 892-1440. We look forward to serving you soon!