Hip replacement surgery has proven to be highly effective in restoring mobility and reducing pain for individuals with severe hip joint issues. This surgical intervention involves replacing a damaged hip joint with an artificial implant to improve the patient’s quality of life.
Everyday Health reports that more than 50 percent of the older US population (65 years and above) suffer from pain in their hips. Many of them, as well as younger people with severe hip injuries, opt for hip replacement surgeries to get rid of these joint problems.
PR Newswire reports that between 2012 and 2022, the US registered over 2.8 million hip and knee procedures. Many of the hip-related procedures were full-on hip replacement surgeries.
However, despite being highly effective, hip replacement surgery comes with its share of disadvantages and potential complications. Patients must be aware of these complications before making an informed decision.
Here are a few disadvantages of hip replacement surgery you must be aware of.
#1 Surgical Risks and Complications
Hip replacement surgery carries a few inherent risks. There are often complications like infection, blood clots, and nerve damage during or after the procedure.
Infections can be particularly concerning, as they may necessitate the removal of the artificial implant and additional surgeries to control the infection. Blood clots, if not properly managed, can lead to life-threatening conditions like pulmonary embolism.
While these complications are relatively rare, they highlight the importance of careful consideration and preparation before opting for hip replacement surgery. In many cases, even if the surgical risk is avoided, there might still be complications with the implant itself. This was something observed in the Exactech MDL – multidistrict litigation – surrounding the case of orthopedic device maker Exactech Inc.
TorHoerman Law reports that certain Exactech hip implants had defective packaging. This resulted in the oxidation of the Exactech implants’ polyethylene components, leading to various injuries. Patients who got these defective Exactech implants had to undergo revision surgery. If anything, this Exactech lawsuit indicates just how unpredictable the risks can be in hip replacement surgery.
#2 Rehabilitation Challenges
The success of hip replacement surgery largely depends on the patient’s commitment to post-operative rehabilitation. The recovery process can be lengthy and demanding, requiring extensive physical therapy to regain strength, flexibility, and proper joint function.
Many patients find the post-surgery rehabilitation period to be quite challenging, as it involves a significant amount of time, effort, and discomfort. Failure to adhere to the rehabilitation program can lead to suboptimal outcomes, including reduced mobility and persistent pain.
#3 Reduced Range of Motion
Hip replacement surgery can significantly alleviate pain and improve mobility in many cases. However, it doesn’t always restore the full range of motion that a healthy natural hip joint provides.
Some patients may experience limitations in movements like crossing the legs, bending at the hip, or engaging in certain physical activities. If you’re undergoing hip replacement surgery, you must have realistic expectations going into it. Expect your hip to function better, but don’t think that you can fully return to your earlier, more active lifestyle.
#4 Allergic Reactions and Sensitivities
Hip implants are typically made from a combination of metals such as titanium, cobalt, and chromium. While these materials are generally considered safe, some individuals may experience allergic reactions or sensitivities to certain metals. These reactions can manifest as skin rashes, inflammation, or discomfort around the surgical site.
Patients should communicate any known allergies or sensitivities to their medical team before the surgery to minimize the risk of adverse reactions.
#5 Financial Considerations
Hip replacement surgery is a major medical procedure that comes with significant financial implications. The Outpatient Joint Replacement Center Of America reports that the average cost of hip replacement surgery in the US is around $40,000. The costs associated with the surgery include surgeon’s fees, hospital charges, anesthesia, pre-operative and post-operative tests, and rehabilitation expenses.
Even with health insurance coverage, patients may still have out-of-pocket costs that can be substantial. Moreover, if complications arise that require extended hospital stays or revision surgeries, the financial burden can increase significantly. Patients must thoroughly understand their insurance coverage and the potential costs involved before making a decision about undergoing hip replacement surgery.
Conclusion
There can be no doubt that hip replacement surgery is beneficial in many ways. However, as you can tell from our discussion above, the disadvantages of this surgery can’t be ignored. Therefore, if you’re willing to go for hip replacement surgery, consider the disadvantages as well alongside the benefits. Doing so will help you come to a concrete decision regarding whether or not you should go for it.
