Hemiarthroplasty is a surgical procedure in which half of the hip joint is replaced. Hemi is short for “half,” and arthroplasty means “joint replacement.” A fractured hip is usually treated with a hemiarthroplasty.
On the other hand, in a Bipolar Hip Prosthesis, there is an additional artificial joint between two prosthetics. This procedure requires the head of a damaged femur to be replaced with an implant designed to stabilise the femur and restore hip function in this surgical procedure. Unlike a total hip replacement, which replaces both the ball of the femur and the hip socket, this procedure only replaces the ball.
A hemiarthroplasty is usually used in treating a fractured hip. However, it can also treat hips damaged by arthritis.
Hemiarthroplasty vs THR
Following are the differences that can be cited:
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- A bipolar hemiarthroplasty procedure takes less surgical time and less blood loss when compared with THR. In addition, there is significantly less chance of hip dislocation following a hemiarthroplasty than a THR.
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- If the acetabulum is relatively healthy with some traces of arthritis, a hemiarthroplasty is usually recommended, especially among older people who aren’t as active. Younger, more active people do better with a THR. THR is associated with less pain, better long-term function, and greater walking ability than you would with hemiarthroplasty.
Preparing for surgery
Hemiarthroplasty surgery is usually done immediately after an injury that caused a hip fracture, so there’s usually little you can do to prepare. In addition, the procedure requires a hospital stay of at least a couple of days. If possible, you would want to have a friend or a relative with you at the hospital to help make arrangements for your stay and return home or to a step-down unit.
Procedure
You may be given a general anaesthetic, meaning you’ll be asleep for the procedure. Or you may be given a regional anaesthetic, which renders your legs numb, but you’re still awake. Your doctor will discuss your options with you and give their recommendations.
The surgery starts with an incision on the side near the hip. Once the surgeon can see the joint, the femoral head is removed from the acetabulum. A network of tendons, ligaments, and muscles keeps the ball and socket joint. Next, the femoral head is detached from the rest of the femur.
Next, the inside of the femur is hollowed, and a metal stem is placed inside the femur. A prosthetic or artificial femoral head made up of metal is placed securely on the stem. This may be attached to another headlined with polyethylene (plastic). This is called a bipolar hip prosthesis (ahead within ahead). The incision is then bandaged after stitching. A drain may be used to drain any bleeding after surgery.
Recovery
You may require an at-home therapy or follow-up appointments at a recommended physical therapy facility. The duration of therapy will depend on various factors, including your condition, age and overall fitness.
You may have to permanently reduce or avoid activities that need heavy lifting or lots of climbing stairs. Your ability to play sports, like cricket, or tennis, will be very limited. However, it is recommended that low-impact exercise be part of your daily routine for all-around health. Talk to your doctor about activities you should and shouldn’t pursue in the months and years ahead.
Your Takeaway
Brief episodes of pain or stiffness are commonly reported after a hemiarthroplasty. Prolonged discomfort in your replaced hip should not be expected or tolerated. If the operation is successful and there are no complications, you should enjoy your new hip’s long, healthy use. You must participate fully in physical therapy and go to all checkups after surgery.
Orthoplanet is one of Mumbai’s most well-known orthopaedic clinics when it comes to hip and joint care. Dr. Abhijit Kale, along with several other joint specialists and surgeons, Orthoplanet takes care of all your bone problems. Moreover, we constantly strive to provide excellent orthopaedic care at a reasonable cost to our patients. Contact us if you are looking for a genuine hip problem diagnosis Mumbai. We have got you covered for bipolar hip prosthesis and the surgery.