Are you experiencing a sudden dull ache in the hip after a long walk, or a sharp pain when you walk or get up from a chair? Hip pain can start at any time and affect your life. When you’re suffering from hip pain or arthritis, you may be considering hip replacement surgery.
Hip replacement surgery isn’t just a medical procedure but a ticket to a life without pain or discomfort. There are two main types of hip replacement surgery: partial and total. This article is focused on understanding what hip replacement is, the types of hip replacement, the difference between the two, and to help you determine which one is the best fit for you.
Understanding The Fundamentals of Hip Replacement Surgery
Hip replacement surgery is a medical procedure where a damaged hip joint is replaced with an artificial joint. The main goal of this surgery is to improve mobility, relieve pain, and restore function to the hip joint. There are two types of hip replacement, which will be discussed below.
What is a Partial Hip Replacement?
A Partial hip replacement, also known as hemiarthroplasty is the process that involves replacing only the ball of the thigh bone (femoral head) with an artificial ball head. The socket (acetabulum) is left untouched, so it is a partial hip replacement. This replacement is usually recommended for hip fractures, especially for older adults, joint degradation, avascular necrosis, and osteonecrosis.This option is also called a half hip replacement. It is not suited for everyone. People with arthritis or socket damage usually require a different procedure. But for the right patient, this surgery can help restore movement and reduce pain after a fall.
Doctors often suggest this operation for older patients who have fractured the top of their thigh bone. Since only part of the joint is replaced,this surgery has the benefits of shorter surgery time, quicker recovery, and faster rehabilitation, allowing patients to regain mobility quickly. While PHR provides some benefits, it also has its downsides, as it is limited to fractures and not effective for arthritis or widespread joint damage. There is a potential need for future replacement if arthritis develops later.
Total Hip Replacement (Arthroplasty)
Total hip replacement, also known as arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure where both the ball (femoral head) and the socket (acetabulum) of the hip joint are replaced with artificial components. This surgery is best suited for patients with severe arthritis, joint degradation and damage, or chronic pain.
THR has pros such as long-term relief for joint issues and improved quality of life with no chronic pain and durability as it can last at least 15 years. Its cons include a more invasive process that requires a lengthier rehab, and it carries a higher surgical risk of infection, dislocation, or blood clot.
Differences Between Partial and Total Hip Replacement Surgery
- Area of Surgery: Partial hip replacement(PHR) is a less invasive surgery that only replaces the femoral head whilst total hip replacement is a procedure that involves both the ball and the socket of the hip
- Recovery: PHR has a quicker recovery time than that of total hip replacement. THR offers longer-term relief than partial hip replacement.
- Patient Demographics: Partial hip replacement is more common in elderly adults who have suffered from fractures, while total hip replacement is better suited for younger patients with joint degeneration.
Which Is Better, Partial Or Full Hip Replacement?
Making a decision between partial vs total hip replacement depends on the joint condition. A partial replacement might be enough if the socket is healthy. The surgery allows for quicker recovery and avoids complete replacement of a working part of the joint.
However, if the socket is damaged or there is arthritis, a full replacement is usually the better option. It provides better stability and may last longer in active individuals. Neither option is better for everyone. The right decision must be based on medical scans, pain levels, and future mobility goals.
This infographic shows the key differences between partial and total hip replacement to help patients understand recovery, motion, pain relief, and long-term stability.
How to Decide Which is Right for You?
Choosing which hip replacement surgery suits you depends on a few factors:
- Age and activity levels: Partial hip replacement is better suited for elderly people with hip fractures, while younger and more active patients often benefit more from total hip replacement.
- Level of Joint Damage: Having arthritis or joint damage usually requires total replacement, as partial replacement is more suited for fractures.
- Medical Opinion: Your doctor is best equipped to recommend the most suitable option after considering your overall health, lifestyle, age, and bone density.
Who Is A Candidate For Hip Replacement Surgery?
Not every patient is eligible for hemiarthroplasty. It is usually done for older adults who have a fractured femoral head but no damage to the socket. These patients often have lower levels of activity and may not need the durability of a full hip implant. The surgery may also be considered for those with health conditions that make longer procedures risky.
Younger individuals [or those with joint wear from arthritis] are not ideal candidates. For such cases, a total replacement offers better long-term results. An experienced hip replacement surgeon in Mumbai can help determine the best approach.
What Is The Recovery Time After Hip Replacement Surgery?
Recovery after hip surgery takes time, requiring patience. For a partial replacement, many patients can start walking within a few days. With physical support, they may return to simple tasks in about four weeks. Total replacement surgery usually takes longer to recover from.
Full healing and mobility may take three months or more the timeline depends on age, fitness, and the body’s response to the implant. Follow-up appointments and rest are just as important as surgery itself.
What Type Of Physical Therapy Is Required After A Total Hip Replacement?
Recovery is not complete without proper therapy!
- After surgery, a therapist will help you regain strength, balance, and confidence. The first focus is to stand and walk safely.
- Next, you learn to climb stairs and move without pain.
- A well-planned therapy schedule prevents stiffness and builds muscle.
A trained expert like Dr. Komal R Gupta , best lady physiotherapist at Divi can design the right routine for your needs. Regular practice helps restore joint movement and prevents future falls.
The Bottom Line
Hip replacement surgery whether partial or total is a life changing procedure that gives people a path to a pain-free life in regards to hip pain. It is a hip pain treatment that ensures you can carry out your activities pain free and align with your needs.Understanding the types of hip replacements, and the differences between the types, and consulting your doctor is the best way to make an informed decision and determine the best course of treatment. For the total hip replacement in Mumbai, connect with Dr.Divyesh Bukalsaria today.
