There are several approaches used in performing total hip replacement surgery, however the posterior approach is the one that is most commonly used by surgeons, medical experts say. The application of the posterior approach is extensive and for this reason about 70 percent of total hip replacement performed in the United States is done through this method, according to Duke Orthopaedics. Surgeons may use the minimally invasive technique or extended if there are problems encountered during the procedure. There are a lower number of complications when using the posterior approach compared to the anterior approach, especially when the surgeon is skilled in performing this surgical procedure, but there were several recipients filing complaints regarding their hip implants.


Even though this type of method in doing the total hip replacement is considered safe and with lesser complications, patients are recommended to follow the posterior precaution, most especially during the first few months after the surgery. The precautions to be taken vary depending on the length of time after the operation. Walking aids are suggested to be used especially during the first few weeks after the operation. For the first six to eight weeks after the procedure, patients are recommended to avoid:

-       Rotating the operated leg inward.

-       Crossing the operated leg.

-       Bending the operated leg more than 90 degrees.

-       Using a low chair or commode. They need to use a raised toilet seat for the first three months.

-       Lying on the operated side.

-       Carrying heavy load.

-       Prolonged sitting for more than an hour or two. It is advisable to walk lie down or stand instead.


Depending on the progress of the patient’s healing, surgeons and physical therapists may allow more activities. The next six to eight weeks vary for each patient, although most activities would include:

-       Rolling on either side of the bed provided that there are two pillows positioned between the knees.

-       Low chairs are to be avoided. One may use the handicapped restroom when in public.

-       Place the operated leg in front when sitting or standing. This reduces pressure on the operated leg when shifting positions.

-       Use a reacher when getting objects that are out-of-reach.

-       Do not stoop or bend to pick something up.

-       Maintain an adequate weight because the added pounds will add more pressure to the hips.

-       Continue the exercise program


Although most operations are successful, there were some patients who have gone through complications after their surgery, some have contacted a Biomet hip replacement lawyer after experiencing hip implant failure.

 
 

URL References:

dukehealth.org/orthopaedics/services/joint-replacement/care-guides/hip-replacement-surgery-information/physical-therapy-after-total-hip-surgery

penrosept.com/media/file/346996/TOTAL HIP REPLACEMENT PROTOCOL-post.pdf

dukehealth.org/orthopaedics/services/joint-replacement/treatments/total-hip-replacement/posterior-approach-to-total-hip-replacement-surgery

 The use of metal-on-metal hip implants have been questioned by several health experts as the number of complaints rise, news reports say. Better mental health is one of the extensive and long-lasting benefits experienced by patients who have undergone a hip replacement operation, according to the article published in the Medical News Today. However, with every light there is also a shadow, as negative effects from these metal hip implants started to become more visible. There were investigations that pointed out where the problem might lie and how these problems might be avoided.

All-metal hip implant patients face greater risks when compared to those who have a different prosthetic design, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Each patient also face different risks. The safety information gathered by the FDA helps surgeons, health care providers and patients make informed health decisions that may improve the health of the patient. The stem, ball and shell is made of metal. These implants are often made of cobalt and chromium metals. Health care providers are advised by the FDA to weigh the risks and benefits of using an all-metal hip implant.

Metal-on-polyethylene, ceramic-on-metal, ceramic-on-polyethylene and ceramic-on-ceramic may be used as an alternative if the risks of using an all-metal hip prosthesis is high. Surgeons are also recommended to inform patients of these options and also their risks and benefits so as to set their expectations of what might occur after surgery. Weight, gender, age, diagnosis and lifestyle are several factors that might influence the success of the prosthesis. Young and active men with large femoral heads were found to be the best candidate for hip resurfacing, while women were found to have high implant failure rates.

Pain and infection often results from the deposits of metal wear particles in the surrounding tissues. The long-term effects of chromium and cobalt ions in the blood is still being by health experts. These problems have led to the recall of some the prosthesis from the market, although there are still a few that are being today. Patients with metal-on-metal hip are advised to go through routine check-ups to monitor their prosthesis and overall health even if they do not have any symptoms.


URL References:
fda.gov/MedicalDevices/ProductsandMedicalProcedures/ImplantsandProsthetics/MetalonMetalHipImplants/ucm241604.htm
fda.gov/MedicalDevices/Safety/AlertsandNotices/ucm335775.htm
medicalnewstoday.com/releases/90293.php