Procedure guide · Orthopaedic surgery
A total hip replacement replaces damaged parts of the hip joint with metal, plastic or ceramic parts. The NHS says it is most commonly used for pain and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis when other treatments have not worked. An orthopaedic surgeon in India reviews your X-rays and general health before advising whether it suits you.
What is a total hip replacement?
The hip is a ball-and-socket joint where the top of the thigh bone meets the pelvis. In a total hip replacement both the ball and the socket are replaced with artificial parts. The NHS notes these can be made of metal, plastic or ceramic. It also says a replacement can last for at least 15 years.
The operation is done in hospital and recovery can take several months. Your surgeon chooses the approach, the implant and the type of anaesthetic based on your hip and your health.
Who may an orthopaedic surgeon consider for hip replacement?
According to the NHS, hip replacement is usually considered when hip pain and reduced movement interfere with daily life and other treatments or lifestyle changes have not helped. Osteoarthritis is the most common reason.
Other causes of hip damage exist, and your surgeon will want to understand yours. Some people are advised to try further non-surgical treatment first. Others have health conditions that need attention before surgery. The surgeon decides whether and when an operation is appropriate.
Which reports does a hip surgeon usually ask for?
Ask the hospital which of these it needs for a remote opinion:
- an X-ray of the pelvis showing both hips
- a side-view X-ray of the painful hip
- any MRI or CT scan of the hip
- a note on how far you can walk and whether you use a stick
- blood tests, including HbA1c if you have diabetes
- heart reports and a medicine list if you have heart disease or take blood thinners
How do I plan a hip replacement trip?
Plan for remote review, a plan and estimate, visas for you and an attendant, arrival and pre-operative checks, surgery, a hospital stay with physiotherapy and a period of outpatient rehabilitation near the hospital. Your surgeon decides when you are ready to fly and what you should do to lower the risk of clots on the journey.
After a hip replacement you may be given guidance on how to sit, bend and get in and out of cars and beds. Choose accommodation with a raised chair and toilet if possible. Ask about the safest way to manage the long flight home, including seating and getting up to move. Arrange physiotherapy at home before you travel.
What should I ask the hospital before booking?
- Which implant and bearing materials do you plan to use and why?
- Which surgical approach will you use?
- Will I have a general or spinal anaesthetic?
- What movement precautions should I follow and for how long?
- How much physiotherapy is included before I fly?
- Will I receive the implant details and an operation note?
Who decides
IndiaMedica does not give medical advice. Your treating specialist decides whether this procedure suits you, the treatment plan, how long you stay and when it is safe to fly.
Questions people ask
How long does a hip replacement last?
The NHS says a hip replacement can last for at least 15 years. How long yours lasts depends on many factors, including activity and body weight. Keep the implant details in case you ever need further surgery, and see your doctor if new pain develops.
Will I need help when I get home?
Most people need some help with daily tasks at first, such as dressing, shopping and housework. Plan this before you travel. An attendant on the trip and family support at home make the early weeks easier. Book a physiotherapist at home in advance.
Sources
General information, not medical or legal advice. Rules change: confirm with the official source. Your treating specialist decides on suitability, treatment and length of stay. How we write and check.