Washington, DC Hip Replacement Cost Comparison

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• Hip Replacement Types in Washington
• Hip Replacement Providers in Washington

Hip Replacement Surgery Cost and Procedure Introduction

Hip replacement surgery, sometimes called total hip arthroplasty, is an option for people who have hip pain or loss of mobility. This procedure can be performed arthroscopically or with traditional "open" surgery. Arthroscopic (minimally invasive) surgery is a procedure performed through tiny incisions, using an instrument called an arthroscope, a tube-like instrument with a camera and surgical tools attached. Arthritis is one of the most common reasons for this surgery, though fractures, avascular necrosis and other problems can be cause for hip replacement surgery. This procedure is usually only considered after more conservative measures — anti-inflammatory medication, bracing, physical therapy, prescription pain medication and restrictions in activity — have been exhausted. Patients typically stay in the hospital for four to six days after the surgery and can return to normal light activities after three to six weeks, though you will have to avoid certain sports and high-impact activities.

Patient Preparation for Hip Replacement Surgery

A physical examination will be performed along with blood or other diagnostic tests — X-rays, MRIs, etc. It is particularly important to inform the physician of all medications or vitamins taken regularly or if you are pregnant (or think you might be pregnant). Tell your doctor if you have heart, lung or other medical conditions that may need special attention. Finally, tell your doctor if you have a history of bleeding disorders or if you are taking any anticoagulant (blood-thinning) medications, aspirin or other medications that affect blood clotting. You will be given instructions in advance that will outline what you should and should not do in preparation for the surgery. You will be asked to fast for eight hours before the procedure, generally after midnight. You will need to make arrangements for transportation after the surgery is complete. If you are given a prescription for pain medication, have it filled prior to surgery.

What to Expect During and After Hip Replacement Surgery

The surgery itself usually takes one to two hours. An intravenous line is inserted into the arm to administer a sedative and a painkiller. Also, your heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate and oxygen level will be monitored during the procedure. The procedure is done while you are under general anesthesia (unconscious and pain-free). Typically, hip replacement surgery is performed by an orthopedic surgeon. Once you are unconscious, the surgeon will make an incision on the side of the hip and then move the muscles and other tissue in order to reach the joint. The ball part of the joint is removed by cutting high on the femur. The ball will be replaced with an artificial joint using cement or a material that allows the bone to attach to the new joint. Your surgeon will then remove the damaged cartilage from the hip bone and insert the thigh bone into the hip socket. Finally, the incision will be stitched closed. For arthroscopic hip replacement surgery, the steps above are performed through one or two smaller cuts and small tools attached to the laparoscope. This method reduces blood loss, pain, and length of hospital stay. This procedure is newer than the standard hip replacement so make sure your doctor has experience (and success) before opting for minimally invasive surgery.

After surgery, you will be taken to the recovery room for observation. Once your blood pressure, pulse, and breathing are stable and you are alert, you will be taken to your hospital room. Patients stay in the hospital from four to six days, when pain can be managed without IV pain medication, and the patient can safely use crutches or a walker. Before being discharged, you will be given instructions about care for your incisions, limits on activities and what you should do to aid your recovery. If you notice any of the following, call the number the hospital gave you: Fever, excessive sweating, difficulty urinating, redness, bleeding or worsening pain. You will likely need weeks or months of physical therapy.