Hip replacement is one of the most successful procedures in medical history. The surgery is recommended as a last resort when no other treatment or medication is effective. However, before going for the surgery, it is vital to make yourself aware of the benefits, risks, and expenses involved. People in their old age are more likely to undergo the procedure, but many young people also go for hip replacement. The hip replacement cost in India can depend on various factors, which we will discuss later in the article. Here is everything you need to know about hip replacement
Also CheckOut:
What Is Hip Replacement?
Hip replacement surgery is also known as total hip arthroplasty, wherein a worn-out hip joint is replaced with a prosthesis. The main aim is to relieve hip stiffness and pain, which is generally caused by arthritis. Other conditions that can be treated with the help of hip replacement include hip injuries, broken hip, or improperly aligned hips. Total hip replacement is advised when your hip pain affects day-to-day activities to a great extent, and any other treatment is no longer effective. The prosthesis or artificial joint is either made up of ceramic, hard plastic, or metal.
What Are Some Of The Common Causes Of Hip Pain?
Arthritis is the leading cause of damage to hip joints that results in severe pain, discomfort, and disability. These symptoms can often degrade joint health so much that a hip replacement becomes necessary.
Osteoarthritis: This type of arthritis affects people over the age of fifty due to wear and tear in the joints over time. The cushioning between the bones tears down, resulting in bones rubbing against each other, causing pain and stiffness.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disease wherein the synovial membrane gets thick and inflamed. It is also known as inflammatory arthritis, as chronic inflammation damages the cartilage.
Post-Traumatic Arthritis: This type of arthritis happens after a serious injury or fracture. Due to extensive damage to cartilage, the patient may suffer from persistent hip pain and stiffness.
Osteonecrosis: The blood supply can get limited to the femoral head due to an injury such as dislocation of the hip joint. It is also referred to as avascular necrosis. Due to lack of supply of blood, the bone surface breaks down and collapses, causing arthritis.
Childhood Hip Ailments: At the time of birth, some infants may suffer from hip problems. Such conditions are usually treated during childhood but may result in arthritis in later life. This can happen due to abnormal growth of the hip or the joint surfaces.
If all these conditions are affecting your daily life, then your orthopedic doctor may recommend a total hip replacement.
What Happens During Hip Replacement Surgery?
There are two ways of performing hip replacement surgery. One is the traditional method, and the other is a minimally invasive technique. Between the two methods, the primary difference is of the incision. In the traditional method, the patient is given general anesthesia to relax and numb the muscles. Hence, the patient does not experience any pain during the surgery. Afterward, an incision is made, and the damaged ball portion is removed using a saw. Then an artificial joint is attached, and any damaged cartilage is removed. Afterward, a new ball part is inserted into the replaced socket. The incision in traditional methods is usually 8-10 inches long. Whereas in minimally invasive surgery, a cut of only 2-5 inches long is made. To date, most surgeries are done using the traditional method.
What Is The Cost Of Total Hip Replacement In India?
The cost of any medical procedure depends upon various factors such as the severity of the condition, location of the hospital, facilities available, doctor’s fees, medicines prescribed, etc. However, generally, the average cost of total hip replacement in India stands at around 3.5 lakhs. In a metro city, single hip replacement costs on an average around 2.3-2.6 lakhs. At the same time, a bilateral hip replacement costs 4.6-5.4 lakhs. Therefore, before undergoing surgery, one must get ready for the surgery cost as well as after-surgery expenses.
Conclusion
Total hip replacement is one of the most successful medical procedures. It can sound overwhelming and complex to a layman. However, with medical advancements, the surgery is relatively safe with inherent risks of any surgical procedure. Therefore, consult a few doctors before finalizing the decision of undergoing a hip replacement.
