What is a hip replacement?
Most patients with hip pain do not require surgery and are treated with therapy, medication or even an injection. When your hip pain is not relieved by these treatments you may benefit from a hip replacement.
When you have a hip replacement, we remove your painful joint surfaces and replace them with metal and a special plastic to give you a new smooth and non-painful joint.
A hip replacement is a very successful surgery for those who need it and we are happy to help you through your surgery and recovery.
how long is recoverY?
Recovering from your surgery can be a long process and you will be improving for up to one year after your surgery. You can expect to initially feel down and with low energy. Pain and swelling is common and you can expect aches and swelling for three months after your surgery. Your new joint replacement will be with you for the rest of your life so it is important that you take care of it. It is important to know that the joint replacement is not the knee or hip you had when you were younger and will always be different than your old joint. They can click and make sounds and will feel different than your old knee. The goal of your knee replacement is to be able to walk and perform your daily activities without pain and it is important that when you have surgery your goals are aligned with this.
Anterior or posterior?
A common question asked is whether the surgery is performed through the front or the back. The answer is it depends on you and what makes your surgery unique. Dr. Eskildsen performs both approaches and will make that decision with you based on your situation and preferences. We will discuss with you what makes each surgery different and the risks and benefits or each and match that with what approach makes sense for you. The surgery can be performed safely through either approach and our first priority is to make sure you have a long lasting and successful surgery.
inpatient or outpatient?
Hip replacements can be performed both in the hospital or at a surgery center where you can be discharge on the same day as your surgery. Most patients that have surgery outside of the hospital have less medical problems and are motivated to go home. Dr. Eskildsen is happy to discuss if you are a candidate for an outpatient surgery.
Dr. Eskildsen performs hip replacements at Rex Hospital and Raleigh Orthopaedic Surgery Center in Raleigh.