How does hip replacement surgery work?
Hip replacement surgery is a procedure in which the damaged surfaces of the hip joint are removed and replaced with prosthetic components designed to restore smooth, pain-free movement.
The hip is a ball-and-socket joint formed by the femoral head (ball) and the acetabulum (socket) of the pelvis. When these surfaces become damaged through arthritis, trauma, or other conditions, pain, stiffness, and loss of function can occur.
During surgery, the worn femoral head is removed and replaced with a prosthetic ball attached to a stem that is inserted into the femur (thigh bone). The damaged cartilage and bone within the acetabulum are carefully prepared before a prosthetic socket component is implanted. A specialised liner is then inserted into the socket to create a durable bearing surface between the two components.
The prosthetic components may be fixed using cemented, uncemented, or hybrid fixation techniques, depending on the patient's age, bone quality, anatomy, and individual requirements.
Surgical Planning and Implant Positioning
Successful hip replacement surgery relies on careful pre-operative planning and precise implant positioning.
Before surgery, detailed radiographic assessment is performed to evaluate the patient's anatomy, leg length, hip biomechanics, and bone quality. This planning assists in selecting the appropriate implant design, sizing, and positioning strategy for each individual patient.
Accurate implant positioning is essential for:
- Restoring normal hip biomechanics
- Optimising joint stability
- Improving range of motion
- Minimising implant wear
- Reducing the risk of dislocation
- Maximising implant longevity
Modern surgical techniques and technologies, including robotic-assisted systems where appropriate, allow for enhanced precision during implant placement.
What types of implants are used
Hip replacement implants are manufactured from highly durable materials designed to withstand many years of daily activity.
Components commonly include:
- Titanium or cobalt-chrome femoral stems
- Ceramic or metal femoral heads
- Titanium acetabular shells
- Highly cross-linked polyethylene liners
The choice of implant is tailored to the individual patient and depends on factors such as age, activity level, bone quality, and underlying pathology.
What should I know after surgery?
Following surgery, patients begin mobilising under the guidance of a physiotherapist. Early movement is encouraged to improve recovery, reduce complications, and restore function.
Most patients experience significant improvement in pain and mobility following hip replacement surgery. Recovery progresses over several weeks and continues to improve for several months as strength, flexibility, and confidence return.
Dr Naidu develops an individualised rehabilitation programme for each patient to optimise recovery and long-term outcomes.
