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Artificial hip joint

What is an artificial hip joint?

Signs of wear and tear due to age may necessitate the use of an artificial hip joint. Osteoarthritis in the hip joint, for example, can lead to destruction of the joint, accompanied by restrictions in movement and function. This may necessitate the implantation of an artificial hip joint in order to lead a pain-free life again.

An artificial hip joint is intended to replace the natural joint and take over its function. It consists of several parts: Shaft, head and pan (insert and shell). The stem is used to anchor the prosthesis directly in the femur. Anchoring can be done by means of a special cement or a screw connection.

The aim is to restore mobility and improve the quality of life with the use of the artificial prosthesis. The main focus is that you are quickly fit again and can go about your daily habits.

The prognosis for implantation of an artificial hip joint looks very good. An artificial hip joint contributes significantly to relieving pain and maintaining the functionality of the hip. With regard to the service life of a hip prosthesis, it can be assumed that this is between 15 and 20 years. In some cases, the prosthesis may last even longer, depending on the material used. Loosening of the prosthesis then necessitates replacement and insertion of a new, artificial hip joint. Osteoporosis, an accident or constant overloading can also reduce the durability of the hip joint.

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Table of Contents:

Artificial hip joint – what reasons can speak for a prosthesis?

Artificial hip joints – applications and types
What materials are used for an artificial hip joint?
Implantation artificial hip joint – what are the methods of surgery?
Artificial hip joint – what complications or risks can occur?
Tips for the period after the insertion of an artificial hip joint

Artificial hip joint – what reasons can speak for a prosthesis?

A hip joint replacement (hip TEP) is intended to take over the function of the natural joint and enable a pain-free life again. One of the most common reasons for an artificial hip joint is hip osteoarthritis, which can occur with age. The cartilage between the joints wears away, which in turn causes the bone surfaces to rub against each other without protection. This also causes the pain. Other factors that may argue for an artificial hip:

Necrosis at the femoral head: Disturbances of the blood supply can also lead to degradation of the bone. Osteonecrosis of the femoral head can still affect the articular surfaces, which are subsequently destroyed.
Hip dysplasia: This is a deformation of the joint socket. This can be either acquired during life, is genetic and congenital. Depending on the extent, this leads to much faster wear and tear of the hip joint, causing hip osteoarthritis even at a young age. Normally these are detected after birth by ultrasound and in most cases treated with spreading pants.
Accident: Fractures in the area of the acetabulum or the joint head can make the implantation of an artificial hip joint necessary.

Artificial hip joints – applications and types

There are different types of artificial hip joints that can be used depending on the type of disease and the stage. One of the main goals is to preserve as much healthy bone substance as possible. The following are some examples of artificial hip joints:

Hip stem prosthesis or short stem prosthesis: These types of prostheses are characterized by a short stem, which is connected to the femur. Usually, these hip prostheses are used when the bone still has a very stable structure, which is especially the case in young patients.

Hip TEP: Total hip replacement means that the complete hip joint is replaced by a special prosthesis. Hip TEP may be considered if there is very extensive damage to the cartilage. In this case, there is a very painful rubbing movement of the head of the joint in the acetabulum.

We will be happy to explain the different prosthesis variants that can be used for hip surgery in more detail. This can be done during the first consultation appointment at our Orthopedic Center Munich East.

What materials are used for an artificial hip joint?

An artificial hip that is inserted during surgery can be made of different materials. It is important that the material used is slippery and very robust. In most cases, an artificial hip is made of a combination of metal and polyethylene. Especially the material polyethylene convinces with its body-friendly properties.

There are also endoprostheses that consist of a metal-metal combination. These sliding couples are characterized by a very high stability, which remains even during a very active life. An endoprosthesis can also be made of a ceramic bearing couple, although this is rather rare. In an initial consultation at our Orthopedic Center Munich East, we will be happy to introduce you to the various prostheses that are used in hip surgery.

Implantation artificial hip joint – what are the methods of surgery?

An artificial hip joint can be inserted minimally invasively or using a conventional surgical method. With minimally invasive hip surgery, only a small incision is necessary and the implantation is performed in a way that is as gentle on the tissue as possible. No tendons or muscle cords are cut in this variant. The key advantages with minimally invasive surgery is that very little pain medication needs to be administered and you will be mobile again more quickly.

The traditional surgical method, which still requires a larger incision and cutting of muscles, is rarely used nowadays. A hip prosthesis can be anchored in the pelvic bone with cement or completely without cement.

Artificial hip joint – what complications or risks can occur?

The insertion of an artificial hip joint is performed very frequently in Germany and has almost become a standard operation. Of course, any surgery involves certain risks and has complications. First and foremost, there are risks that can occur with any surgical procedure. These include secondary bleeding, inflammation or thrombosis. Bacterial inflammation of the implanted hip joint is also possible. Other risks or complications of hip surgery:

Dislocation or luxation
the artificial hip joint may become loose
Infection

Existing osteoporosis may be more likely to cause loosening of the hip joint, due to the specific bone structure. Fracture of the bones surrounding the prosthesis can also occur.

Tips for the period after the insertion of an artificial hip joint

After the implantation of an artificial hip joint, you should under no circumstances adopt a resting posture and just rest. Exercise is important to help the healing process. Special physiotherapeutic exercises, for example, can promote the healing of the cementless prosthesis. In the initial period, you should avoid sitting for long periods of time. It is better to limit sedentary activities to a minimum per day. When sitting, it is also important to ensure an optimal, ergonomic sitting position. Special wedge pillows can help with this.

There are some things you should refrain from doing after having an artificial hip joint implanted. This is related to the weakened musculature in the area of the hip and also the thighs. Avoid crossing your legs in the early days. You should also use a shoehorn when putting on shoes after surgery. Excessive bending movements of the hip could have a negative effect. Other behavioral measures after hip surgery:

Walking aids can help to avoid an exaggerated gentle posture and extreme strains
pay attention to sturdy shoes and especially in the beginning it is better not to wear shoes with heels
light sports, which do not represent a great strain, are possible again after a certain time
avoid overweight and pay attention to a healthy, conscious diet
carrying heavy loads should be kept to a minimum or avoided altogether

After the implantation of an artificial hip joint in our Orthopedic Center Munich East, we will be happy to give you further advice on how you should behave and what is possible after the operation. The treatment in our Orthopedic Center Munich East is tailored exactly to you.

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