Hip replacement surgery is a common and successful procedure to relieve pain and improve mobility in adults with hip joint damage. However, like all surgeries, there is a risk of complications.
To decrease the risk of complications after hip replacement surgery, it is important to follow your surgeon's instructions and take measures to prevent infection.
It is also important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of complications so that you can seek treatment early if necessary.
What does a hip replacement entail?
A hip replacement is a surgical procedure in which the hip joint is replaced with a prosthetic implant. The prosthetic implant may be made from metal, plastic, or ceramic.
Hip replacements are usually performed to relieve pain and improve mobility in patients with hip joint damage from arthritis or other conditions. In most cases, the surgery is successful, and patients are able to regain pain-free mobility.
A hip replacement is a major surgery that has a lot of risks, but there are also many potential positives that come with the surgery. For example, a hip replacement can relieve pain, increase mobility, and improve quality of life. It is important to weigh the risks and benefits of a hip replacement before making a decision, but for many people, the potential positives outweigh the risks.
What are the risks?
A hip replacement is a major surgery with a number of risks. These risks include blood clots, infection, joint dislocation, and nerve damage. A hip replacement can also cause problems with the surrounding muscles, bones, and tissues.
Although the risks of a hip replacement are serious, the majority of people who have the surgery experience a positive outcome. With proper care and rehabilitation, most people can recover fully and go on to lead active and healthy lives.
How can I prevent the risks
There are several things you can do to help reduce the risks of hip replacement surgery. By following these simple tips, you can help reduce the risks associated with hip replacement surgery and increase your chances of a successful outcome.
Prepare yourself before surgery
Before the surgery goes forward, the orthopeadic surgeon will look at your medical history, such as any underlying conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes. These can increase the risk of complications like infection. So allowing the surgeon to know this can let them control the risks better.
Also you should prepare your home beforehand. Make sure it easier for you to daily tasks like cooking, shopping and walking. Move things in your cupboards so you aren’t having to bend and move as much and make sure you have help when things may get tough.
Signs of infection
One of the most common but treatable complication is infection. You will be prescribed antibiotics to prevent the infection from developing after the surgery. However, it can still occur so here are the signs to look out for:
- High fever
- Increased redness, swelling, tenderness at the site if incision
- Increasing pain during rest and activity
- Weeping from incision site
Follow your rehabilitation plan
Your rehabilitation plan will be given to you after surgery. The exercises focus on alleviating pain, resorting strength and increasing your mobility. It also helps prevent risks such as dislocation, blood clots, stiffness and swelling.
If you follow the rehabilitation plan you will recover quicker and return to your normal daily activities faster.
Hip replacement surgery is a major procedure that can have many complications. It is important to take steps to prevent these complications by following your doctor's orders and keeping your incision clean. Once you have had hip replacement surgery, it is also important to monitor your health closely and to contact your doctor immediately if you experience any problems.