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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    How does total hip placement surgery work?

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    Dr Sarah O’Reilly-Harbidge is an Orthopaedic Surgeon with a special interest in Hip and Knee surgery as well as Orthopaedic Oncology who consults and operates … View Profile

    This type of surgery usually takes only one to two hours to complete. It can be done under general anaesthetic, where you are unconscious, or spinal anaesthetic, where you are conscious but lack sensation from the waist down. The incision is usually made on the back of the hip, but it can also be done on the front. During the surgery, the worn out or damaged parts of your hip will be taken out. In their place, artificial implants will be put in. During a total hip arthroplasty, the socket and femoral head will both be replaced. You will probably stay in the hospital for one or two nights afterwards. Most patients experience a great reduction in pain and improvement in mobility after surgery. For the first 3-6 weeks after surgery, you should expect to take it very easy and will not be able to perform many tasks around the home. You will receive an activity program from your surgeon to help you improve your mobility and recovery.

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