Total Hip Replacement
Total hip replacement is the most reliable way to treat arthritis of the hip once conservative treatments have been exhausted. Here Mr Samir Ali Salih talks about his approach:
Treatments offered by Arthritis Specialists
- Robotic Hip Replacement Surgery
- Total Hip Replacement
- Xray guided hip injections
- Rapid access hip injections
- Short waiting list surgery
About the operation
The first modern hip replacement was performed in 1962, and since then it has become so successful it has been referred to as the operation of the century. Improvements in operative techniques and implants mean that total hip replacement is no longer a treatment just for the elderly, and is used in younger and more active patients. In the majority of patients the hip replacement will last for life.
Mr Samir Ali Salih is fully trained in modern techniques including muscle sparing approaches, enhanced recovery, and day case surgery.
Mr Samir Ali Salih uses implants with a proven track record to ensure his patients have the best chance of a natural feeling hip that lasts. He also submits 100% of his cases to the national joint registry to help the next generation of patients use the best implants.
During the Operation
The operation lasts around 1 hour, you will be placed on you side for this period with supports to keep your hips still. Many patients actually sleep through the operation, others choose to listen to music.
After the operation you will stay in bed for a short period until your anaesthetic has worn off, followed by physiotherapy to get up and walking on the same day. Some patients go home the same day, some stay in hospital for 1 to 2 nights.
After the Operation
Post operative it is important to keep moving regularly, however a period avoiding strenuous activity is sensible. It takes around 2 weeks for the surgical incision to heal, and activities like driving can often start around 6 weeks post operative. Mr Samir Ali Salih will generally see his patients in clinic 6 to 8 weeks after the operation to review progress. Most patients at this point will be walking longer distances, building up activity levels, and weaning off sticks or crutches.
Personalised Hip Replacement
Mr Samir Ali Salih believes that matching a hip replacement as closely as possible to a patients native hip is important in creating a stable and more natural feeling joint. He achieves this by templating the joint replacement on a patients X-rays before starting the operation, this creates a plan for the operation, and combined with intra-operative techniques to balance the hip replacement is a reliable way to make the joint stable.
Patient Feedback
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need a hip replacement and are there any alternatives?
Hip replacement is a good option when pain and stiffness severely limit daily activities and other treatments like medications, injections, physiotherapy, or lifestyle changes no longer provide relief. The goal is to improve quality of life..
What kind of anesteshia will I have?
The most common anaesthetic used for Mr Samir Ali Salih patients is spinal anaesthetic, this has the advantage of faster recovery with longer lasting pain relief. The choice depends on your health, preferences, and anesthetists recommendation. Both are safe and commonly used.
Who is the best Orthopaedic Surgeon in South Yorkshire
There is no such thing as the best Orthopaedic surgeon, this is because surgeons specialise into certain areas. Mr Samir Ali Salih has super-specialised into hip and knee replacementes in patients with arthritis. When choosing a surgeon patients should look for a high level of post CCT fellowship training, expertise in the relevant areas, and a good track record. To book an appointment with Mr Salih click here.
What materials will the artificial joint be made of?
Hip implants are usually made of a combination of metal, ceramic, durable plastic, and orthopaedic cement. These materials are designed to move smoothly, resist wear, and last many years inside the body. The materials used will be chosen for the best chance of a long lasting and problem free hip replacement.
How long will the implant last?
The vast majority of modern hip replacements last well over 15 years, likely much longer. Longevity will depend on implant type, and activity level and other variables. There is a very high chance that a total hip replacement will never need to be revised.
How long does full recovery take?
Most patients feel mobile enough to go home the same day as the operation or after 1 or 2 nights in hospital. It takes 2 weeks for the skin to heal, and around 6–12 weeks for the muscles around the hip to heal. Full strength, flexibility, and confidence may take up to 6 months, though many patients feel much better much sooner. Most patients feel ready to return to work or driving after 6 weeks.
How long is the waiting list for a hip replacement
The waiting list for self funded patients can typically be as short as two weeks. This is important as longer waits can lead to a longer period in discomfort, and de-conditioning making rehab harder after the operation. This is a significant advantage to private surgery compared to NHS waiting times for joint replacements that can extend over a year.
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