Total Hip Replacement Surgery Singapore | Hip Replacement Surgeon

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Overview

What is Hip Replacement Surgery?
When is Hip Replacement Surgery Needed?
What Can Hip Replacement Treat?
Types of Hip Replacement Surgery
How to Prepare for Hip Replacement Surgery
How is Hip Replacement Performed?
Recovering from Hip Replacement
When Can I Drive, Fly, or Return to Work?
Risks of Hip Replacement Surgery

What is Hip Replacement Surgery?

Hip replacement surgery, also known as hip arthroplasty, is a medical procedure in which a damaged or diseased hip joint is replaced with an artificial implant. This surgery is commonly performed to relieve pain and restore function in individuals with severe hip arthritis or other debilitating hip conditions. The procedure involves removing damaged cartilage and bone from the hip joint and replacing them with prosthetic components made of metal, plastic, or ceramic materials.

When is Hip Replacement Surgery Needed?

Hip replacement is typically considered when:

Pain and stiffness in the hip significantly affect daily activities such as walking, standing, or sitting for extended periods
Conservative treatments, including physiotherapy, medications, and injections, no longer provide relief
There is severe joint damage seen on X-rays or MRI scans
The hip is deformed or unstable, making movement difficult
The patient’s quality of life is significantly reduced due to hip pain

To find out if hip replacement may be suitable for you, please reach out to us today for a detailed evaluation and advice.

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What Can Hip Replacement Treat?

Hip replacement surgery is primarily used to treat:

Osteoarthritis: The most common reason for hip replacement, where the cartilage in the hip joint degenerates and wears away over time, leading to hip stiffness and deformity.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune condition that causes inflammation of the lining of the hip joint, resulting in chronic joint inflammation and damage. It may affect many joints and body organs and may occur in younger patients.
Post-Traumatic Arthritis: This refers to arthritis that develops after an injury, such as a fracture or dislocation.

Avascular Necrosis: A condition where the blood supply to the femoral head (the ball of the hip joint) is disrupted, leading to bone death and joint collapse.
Hip Fractures: Severe fractures that affect the hip joint and do not heal properly may require replacement.
Severe Hip Pain and Stiffness: When conservative treatments fail, surgery can provide relief and improve mobility.

Types of Hip Replacement Surgery

There are several types of hip replacement procedures, each tailored to the patient’s condition and needs:

The entire hip joint is replaced with artificial components, including the femoral head (ball) and the acetabulum (socket). This is the most common type of hip replacement surgery and can significantly improve one’s quality of life.

Only the femoral head is replaced, preserving the natural socket. This is usually performed for certain hip fractures.

A less invasive procedure where the femoral head is reshaped and capped with a metal covering instead of being replaced. This is typically considered for younger, active patients with strong, healthy bones.

This is performed when a previous hip replacement has failed (e.g., due to infection, implant wear, or dislocation) or if the artificial implants have worn out over time.

Similar to a traditional hip replacement, this procedure involves the removal of damaged tissue in the hip and replacing it with an artificial joint. However, this procedure is performed with the assistance of a robotic arm. This method offers greater precision and requires a shorter recovery time.

Types of Hip Replacement Surgery

How to Prepare for Hip Replacement Surgery

How to Prepare for Hip Replacement Surgery

Preparation for hip replacement involves several important steps:

Medical Evaluation – A full assessment, including blood tests and imaging, ensures the patient is fit for surgery.
Weight Management – Overweight patients may be advised to lose weight to reduce strain on the new joint.
Strengthening Exercises – Physiotherapy before surgery can help build muscle strength around the hip.
Medication Review – Some medications may need to be stopped around two weeks before surgery. This usually includes blood-thinning medications and certain herbal supplements.
Home Preparation – Setting up a comfortable recovery space with mobility aids, such as walkers and handrails.
Arranging Assistance – Having a caregiver or family member to help during the initial recovery period.

How is Hip Replacement Performed?

How is Hip Replacement Performed?

Anaesthesia – The patient is usually given general anaesthesia so they will be asleep during the procedure.
Incision – A surgical cut is made over the hip, exposing the joint.
Bone Preparation – Damaged cartilage and bone are removed from the hip joint.
Implant Placement – Artificial components (prosthetics) are attached to the thigh bone (femur) and hip socket (acetabulum).
Adjustment and Closure – The prosthetics are aligned properly, and the incision is stitched closed.
Recovery – The patient is monitored in the hospital for a few days before starting rehabilitation.

"During the hip replacement operation itself, I aim to use the smallest possible incision (minimally invasive surgery) to perform the surgery. This is not always possible in complex or revision surgery or when the patient is very large. I aim to handle the tissues with care and minimise blood loss, to reduce post-operative pain and allow a swift recovery."

- Dr Alan Cheung

Recovering from Hip Replacement

Recovering from Hip Replacement

The overall recovery process for a hip replacement involves:

Hospital Stay – Most patients stay in the hospital for 1-3 days post-surgery
Pain Management – Medications and ice therapy help control pain and swelling
Physiotherapy – Rehabilitation starts within 24 hours of surgery, focusing on regaining movement and strength
Mobility Aids – Walkers or crutches are used initially before transitioning to normal walking
Wound Care – The wound may take 2 weeks to heal, and it is important to keep it clean and dry during this time
Follow-Up Visits – Regular check-ups with your hip surgeon to ensure proper healing
Activity Restrictions – You may be asked to refrain from doing certain movements that can dislocate your new hip, such as crossing your legs or bending your hips more than 90 degrees. You may also be advised to avoid activities that incur great risks of falling and injury to prevent dislocation.

When Can I Drive, Fly, or Return to Work?

Most patients can drive six weeks following hip replacement.
You are advised not to fly long-haul for at least six weeks following the operation to reduce the risk of blood clots.
Return to work depends on occupation: sedentary jobs may allow return within six to eight weeks, while physically demanding jobs may require three to six months.

Risks of Hip Replacement Surgery

Although hip replacement surgeries are well-established and effective, they still carry certain risks, such as:

Infection – Bacteria can enter the wound and cause complications.
Blood Clots – Clots can form in the legs and may travel to the lungs.
Implant Issues – The prosthetic may loosen, wear out, or cause instability over time.
Nerve Damage – Temporary or permanent nerve injury can cause numbness or weakness.
Persistent Pain or Stiffness – Some patients continue to experience discomfort despite surgery.
Anaesthesia Complications – Risks include allergic reactions or breathing difficulties.

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FAQs About Hip Replacement Surgery

FAQs About Hip Replacement Surgery

Age is not a limiting factor as long as you are medically fit. Many older patients undergo successful hip replacements and regain mobility.

Bilateral hip replacement is an option but comes with a longer recovery period and slightly higher risks, which should be carefully discussed with your surgeon.

Pain levels vary between individuals, but post-surgical pain is well-managed with medications and rehabilitation, improving significantly after the initial healing period.

A modern hip replacement can last between 15-20 years or more, depending on factors such as implant material, patient activity level, and overall health.

Yes, most patients experience significant improvements in mobility and can return to regular daily activities within six to twelve weeks after surgery.

Delaying hip replacement beyond what your doctor has recommended can lead to increased pain and joint deterioration, potentially making future surgery more complex and less effective.