Hip fractures can occur in different ways, but a fracture in the femoral neck area of the bone is most prominent. Bipolar Hip Arthroplasty is a surgery procedure in which the head of the femur is replaced with an artificial or prosthetic implant that helps to restore the hip and femur function. The procedure replaces one-half of the hip joint with an artificial implant that is designed to function in the same way as a natural bone does. You must consult a joint replacement specialist near you to learn about the present situation and possible surgery options available.
When do you need a Bipolar Hip Arthroplasty?
If your hip injury or long-term joint pain is not cured by physical therapy or medication, and you are suffering from chronic pain which is restricting your day-to-day activities, you should go for a bipolar hip arthroplasty.
The conditions when you need hip surgery are as follows
- You might need a bipolar hip arthroplasty surgery if you are suffering from osteonecrosis, a condition when the blood supply to the femoral head is interrupted, which disrupts the function of the bone. The surgery helps to restore the function, providing enough blood supply to the femoral head.
- If you are suffering from advanced rheumatoid arthritis, that results in chronic pain, stiffness, inflammation of joints, deformity and restricts your day-to-day mobility.
- Hip Hemiarthroplasty is also performed to fix the previous surgeries performed in case the implant is damaged or fails to restore joint flexibility.
- You need a bipolar hip arthroplasty in case of osteoporosis. It is more common in elderly people who suffer from hip fractures, chronic pain, or degeneration of joints due to aging.
Process of bipolar hip arthroplasty surgery in Delhi
Bipolar hip arthroplasty surgery (BHA) usually takes 2-3 hours, depending on the complexity of the case. The processes involved in bipolar hip arthroplasty surgery are:
- The patient is given general anaesthesia so that they do not feel the pain during the surgical process.
- A surgical incision is made on the outer part of the thighs to gain access to the damaged hip joint.
- The next step is to remove the damaged femoral head, known as the socket of the ball and socket joint, which is detached from the rest part of the femur.
- The orthopaedic surgeon then inserts the artificial implant, which is adjusted and fitted into the patient’s hip socket. The stem of the artificial implant is placed in the femur.
- The surgeon checks the mobility and flexibility of the incision before closing it. The incision is closed using staples and dressings.
- After the surgery is performed, physical therapy begins typically after one week to restore the mobility and strength of the hip joint.
Bipolar Hip Arthroplasty v/s Total Hip Replacement Surgery
Bipolar hip arthroplasty bracket (BHA) and total hip replacement (THR) are surgical procedures that are carried out to enhance the function of the hip joints.
In BHA, the femoral head is replaced with a two-part artificial implant. Only one-half of the hip joint is replaced, and the other half is preserved to function normally. This type of surgery is usually performed when a person is suffering from early-stage arthritis and is more common among elderly people as it has a quicker recovery time.
On the other hand, Total hip replacement surgery involves the removal of the femoral head ( known as a ball ) and acetabulum (known as a socket) are replaced with a prosthetic implant. THR is more complicated as compared to BHA because it is a complete joint replacement. THR is usually performed in case of advanced and chronic rheumatoid arthritis. It offers long-term durability in young patients.
Precautions to be taken post-surgery
Patients must take certain precautions to avoid any kind of complications after the surgery, which are as follows:
- Avoid bending and twisting of the hips
- Use crutches, elevated toilet seats and grabbers.
- Avoid sitting on low chairs and avoid hip movements beyond 90 degrees.
- Maintain a healthy and protein-rich diet.
- Prevent the operated hip or leg from crossing the midline.
- Use pillows or cushions to prevent legs from crossing while sleeping.
Risks or complications of the surgery
Bipolar hip arthroplasty is generally a safe surgical procedure that is carried out to replace the damaged femoral head. However, a few complications or risks may arise after the surgery.
- Blood clots can arrive in the deep veins of the legs or pelvis after the surgery. You can take blood thinner medication after consulting with the doctor.
- You should take proper medication and antibiotics before and after the surgery to prevent infections.
- There might be a dislocation of the artificial prosthetic inserted after the surgery. This is more prominent in THR but can also occur in BHA.
- During the surgery certain nerves or tissues can be stretched that can cause problems. However, if precautions are taken, this is rare.
Suffering from chronic hip pain can be overwhelming, and it might affect your ability to perform day-to-day activities. So, it is essential for you to consult with a professional and get insights on your current symptoms, as well as which type of surgery is best for you. Simon Thomas is one of the best joint replacement surgeon in Delhi, and they offer both types of Hip surgeries depending on your needs
