Hip Damage: Do You Need A Prosthetic Joint?

Posted on: 28 June 2022

If you suffer from severe arthritis of the hip that doesn't respond well to any of your doctor's treatments, speak to an orthopedist about prosthetic hip replacement. Prosthetic hip replacement is a procedure used by orthopedists to replace their patients' severely damaged or deteriorated hip joints. A prosthetic hip joint may be an option for you as well. Learn more about prosthetics and why you may need a new hip joint soon below.

What's a Prosthetic Joint?

A prosthetic is an artificial device that surgically replaces a natural organ, limb, or joint, or bone in the body. The device helps you regain the natural functions of your body. Prosthetic joints are some of the most commonly used prosthetics today. Joints can replace the natural joints in your knees, ankles, and even hips. 

Prosthetic joints come in a wide range of materials today, including ceramic, plastic, stainless steel, and titanium alloy. Orthopedic doctors may also combine the materials to create the ideal or perfect prosthetic joints for their patients. Each material bonds naturally with the body's tissues and cells, which allows the prosthetic to remain safely in place after surgery. 

If you think a prosthetic joint can replace the damaged joint in your hip, consult an orthopedist soon. An orthopedist can determine when and how you undergo your prosthetic hip replacement surgery. 

When Should You Undergo Prosthetic Hip Surgery?

Before an orthopedist assigns prosthetic hip replacement surgery to you, they'll examine or evaluate your hip socket. Some prosthetics work better than other types of prosthetics. A doctor must ensure they choose the right prosthetic joint for you before they insert it into your hip.

A doctor may take additional X-rays of your hip joint during the evaluation. The images may reveal the extent of deterioration in your hip. You may need to have multiple prosthetics placed in your hip.

For example, if arthritis damaged your hip socket and hip joint, a doctor may also need to place a prosthetic plate in your hip during surgery. The plate prevents the new prosthetic joint from irritating the bone tissue in your hip socket. 

After a doctor completes their evaluation of your hip, they'll schedule surgery. Your surgery may take some time to complete, depending on the number of prosthetics you need in your hip. A doctor will go over the time, expectations, and other important facts about your surgery before they begin.

Learn more about prosthetic hip joints by contacting an orthopedist for services today.

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