Hip replacement surgery

A hip replacement is often used to treat arthritis of the hip, a condition which can progress to be severely debilitating and significantly limit people’s activities of day living.

Hip replacement surgery (arthroplasty) overview

Hip replacement surgery is the commonest surgical procedure to treat pain from damage or arthritis of the hip which is no longer controlled by non-surgical measures. Although it is major surgery, a hip replacement can have a dramatic effect on resolving hip pain and functional limitations and is the third most successful operation offered in modern healthcare for improving quality of life. .

How is surgery carried out?

The operation is usually carried out under regional or general anaesthetic. The surgeon removes the ball of the hip and top few millimeters of the bone of the socket,replacing them with new artifical ball-and-socket components fixed into the top of the thigh bone and pelvis, which are held in place with or without bone cement.

 

Are there any risks?

All surgery carries some risk. Possible complications include:

  • Infection
  • Blood clots
  • Dislocation
  • A difference in leg length
  • Nerve or blood-vessel injury
  • Fracture around the implant
  • Wear, loosening or the need for revision surgery

Your surgeon will explain how these risks apply to you and the steps taken to reduce them.

 

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Hip replacement surgery (arthroplasty) overview

Recovery from hip replacement surgery (arthroplasty)

Early recovery

Phase 1

Begin supported movement with the ward and physiotherapy team, manage pain and protect the wound.

Building everyday movement

Phase 2

Progress walking aids, practise stairs and rebuild hip strength and confidence at a pace set by your care team.

Returning to fuller activity

Phase 3

Return gradually to work, driving and suitable exercise once you can do so safely. Continue rehabilitation and follow-up as advised.

Working with hip professionals and teams

Our hip specialists support professional athletes, sports teams, active individuals and people whose work places high demands on their hips. Working closely with radiologists, physiotherapists and the wider multidisciplinary team, they provide coordinated care from diagnosis through to rehabilitation, helping each person return safely to sport, work or everyday activities.

 

The same specialist expertise and collaborative approach are available to every patient, whatever your activity level or recovery goals.

Working with hip professionals and teams

How to pay

We offer flexible options depending on how you choose to access care at Fortius. Whichever option you choose, we’ll help make the process clear and straightforward from the start.

Private medical insurance

Private medical insurance

If your care is covered by private medical insurance, we’ll usually invoice your insurer directly. Please check your policy in advance and request an authorisation code if your insurer requires one. You’ll be responsible for paying any policy excess or costs that aren’t covered by your insurance.

Paying for yourself

Paying for yourself

You don’t need private medical insurance to access care at Fortius. If you’re paying for your own treatment, our team will explain the costs clearly and provide a personalised quote before you decide whether to go ahead.

 

Hip replacement surgery FAQs

You can return to driving when you are no longer using medication that affects alertness, can control the vehicle safely and can perform an emergency stop comfortably. Check with your surgeon and motor insurer before you drive.

 

This depends on your operation, recovery and type of work. Desk-based work may be possible sooner than a role involving prolonged standing, walking, lifting or driving. Your care team will give you personalised advice.

 

Return gradually and only when your surgeon or physiotherapist is satisfied with your healing, movement, strength and control. The type of sport and the procedure you had will shape the timing.

 

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