Hip Replacement

Certified by The Joint Commission for Advanced Total Hip and Knee Replacement at Froedtert Menomonee Falls Hospital. We are one of only two hospitals in the state to achieve this certification.

The hip joint is one of the largest weight-bearing joints in the body. Total hip replacement, or hip arthroplasty, can relieve pain and restore function. However, other treatment options may relieve hip pain without surgery. Our multidisciplinary orthopaedic team can make an accurate diagnosis and treat the entire spectrum of hip disorders, in some cases without the need for a total hip replacement.

When hip replacement is necessary, we have the specialized knowledge and expertise to treat even the most medically complex cases. We perform a high volume of hip replacement surgeries, have an excellent patient satisfaction rate and a low complication rate. Our entire team is focused on and skilled in joint replacement surgery, which means a better overall experience for our patients.

When Is It Time for Hip Replacement?

Osteoarthritis is a leading cause of hip replacement, but the hip can be damaged by different types of arthritis, injury, infections or hip deformities. Cartilage serves as a joint’s protective cushion. If the cartilage is damaged or worn thin, the bones can rub against each other, causing pain. When other treatment options have failed, and pain has made everyday activities difficult – like walking, sitting or resting – total hip replacement may be an option.

How Is Total Hip Replacement Performed?

During a total hip replacement, the ball and socket portion of the joint are replaced with an artificial joint (prosthesis). The implant is made of materials that allow for smooth, natural movement after the joint is healed. There are two general types of hip implants – cemented and uncemented. 

The first uses surgical cement and the second uses parts with porous surfaces to allow the bone to grow into the pores and hold the implant in place. A hybrid implant may also be used. The type of implant used may depend on the patient’s age, weight, medical conditions and other factors. An artificial hip joint can last ten to 20 years.

For some patients, a minimally invasive approach may be used, which requires a smaller incision and generally leads to faster recovery, less pain and fewer complications. As part of an academic medical center, we also have access to an implant bank, with a wide selection of implants on hand to quickly deal with every contingency.

Helping You Get Back in Action After Hip Surgery

Rehabilitation and therapy after hip replacement surgery can help restore a patient’s strength, function, stability, balance, range of motion and mobility. Recovery takes about three months, but may take longer depending on the patient’s surgery, overall health and other factors. Active participation in physical and occupational therapy is critical to returning to normal activities and independence.

Total Joint Replacement Class, which helps prepare patients for the many aspects of total hip joint replacement surgery, is held regularly. Patients are encouraged to bring a relative or friend to the class.

Conditions That Can Lead to Total Hip Replacement

We treat the entire spectrum of hip disorders, which may or may not lead to total hip replacement surgery, including:

• Arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis) – Arthritis is a degenerative condition, meaning it gets worse over time. There are many non-surgical treatments for arthritis, but for some patients, total hip replacement may be recommended.
• Avascular Necrosis (bone death) – Avascular necrosis results from the loss of blood supply to the bone, whether temporary or permanent. It can be caused by several things, including trauma and some cancer treatments. If it affects the hip joint, a total hip replacement may be recommended.
• Hip Dysplasia – Hip dysplasia is a condition where the hip socket does not completely cover or support the ball portion, or femoral head, of the hip joint. It is generally present at birth, but some people may not have symptoms or be diagnosed until adulthood. Hip dysplasia can damage the hip joint to the point where total hip replacement surgery is necessary.
• Labral Tears (hip) – Labral tears happen in the labrum, a ring of cartilage in the hip. An injury to the labrum may be treated with physical therapy or medications. However some labral tears may require surgical repair depending on the type and severity of the tear. A labral tear in the hip may be repaired with arthroscopic surgery.

Other Common Conditions That Can Affect the Hip Joint

• Bursitis
• Fractures
• Industrial conditions (work-related injuries)
• Osteoporosis
• Sciatica
• Tendinitis
• Trauma