Total Hip Replacement Surgeon in San Diego, La Jolla, East County, CA
Joint conditions such as arthritis may cause damage to the cartilage and bones leading to chronic pain in the hip and/or disability. The condition can be treated by replacing the damaged parts with artificial components. Joseph Mitchell, M.D. provides expert diagnosis and hip replacement surgery in San Diego, La Jolla, East County, CA. Joseph Mitchell, M.D. also provides the highly specialized care during and after the surgery. Contact Joseph Mitchell, M.D.’s office for an appointment today!
What is Total Hip Replacement?
Total hip replacement is a surgical procedure in which damaged cartilage and bone are removed from the hip joint and replaced with artificial components. The main indication for hip replacement is arthritis.
Arthritis is the inflammation of joints, which results in pain, swelling, and stiffness/limited movement.
Total Hip Replacement Procedure
Surgery may be recommended if conservative treatment options such as anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy do not relieve your symptoms.
During the procedure, an incision is made over the hip to expose the underlying joint. The femur is then dislocated from the socket (acetabulum). The degenerative surfaces and arthritis are then removed, and new artificial components inserted. The acetabular component is inserted into the socket along with a liner made of plastic.
The femoral stem component is then inserted into the canal of the femur, either by press fit or using bone cement. The femoral head component (made of metal or ceramic) is then placed onto the stem. The hip capsule (lining) is then repaired, and the incision is closed.
Risks and Complications of Total Hip Replacement
As with any major surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications involved with hip replacement. The possible surgical complications may include:
- Infection
- Dislocation
- Fracture of the femur or pelvis
- Injury to nerves or blood vessels
- Formation of blood clots in the leg veins
- Leg length inequality
- Wearing out of the hip prosthesis
- Failure to relieve pain
If you would like to have additional information on the treatment of hip arthritis or would like to learn more about total hip replacement, please contact Joseph Mitchell, M.D., serving the communities of San Diego, La Jolla, East County, CA.