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Surgery

What form does surgery take?
After a period of thorough planning the surgeon decides on the implant to be used and the method of anchorage before the operation is started.

The patient is given a full or local anaesthetic, and the site prepared to receive the prosthesis. All cartilage is removed and the bone prepared so that the implant can be anchored securely. For hip implants the degenerated head of the hip bone is removed and a suitable anchorage site prepared in the femur.

The components are then inserted into the prepared sites and joined.

What about after surgery?
Treatment after the operation will depend on the implant used.

Mobilisation generally commences on Day 1 or 2 following the operation. This takes the form of exercise and light gymnastics under supervision. The exercises are very important and reduce the risk of subsequent complications.

This is then followed by more intensive physiotherapy to help build up muscle and improve mobility.

The usual range of movements will be restored some weeks after the operation. However, stressful and extreme movements and carrying heavy loads is to be avoided.

The artificial joint should be examined by a physician at regular intervals even if the patient is pain-free.