What Is Hip Replacement Surgery? Who Is It Performed On? Osteoarthritis, wear, and bone damage in the hip joint can cause severe pain and movement limitation over time. When methods such as medication, exercise, and physical therapy are not enough, hip replacement surgery can be considered to reduce pain and improve joint function. 1. Who Is Hip Replacement Surgery Performed On? Hip replacement may generally be recommended in the following situations: - Advanced hip osteoarthritis - Severe hip pain that affects daily life - Serious wear or damage of the hip joint - Avascular necrosis in the hip bone - Some hip fractures - Complaints that continue despite non-surgical treatments The decision for surgery is made according to the orthopedic specialist's examination and imaging results. 2. How Is Hip Replacement Surgery Performed? During the operation, the damaged parts of the hip joint are removed and artificial prosthesis components are placed in their place. The prosthesis generally consists of metal, ceramic, and special plastic components. The operation mostly takes 1-2 hours. The duration may vary according to the patient's condition and the surgical method. 3. What Are the Types of Hip Replacement? - Total hip replacement: Replacement of both the head of the thigh bone and the socket surface of the hip joint. - Partial hip replacement: Replacement of the head of the thigh bone, generally in certain hip fractures. - Revision hip replacement: Renewal of a previously placed prosthesis when necessary. The type of prosthesis to be used is determined according to the patient's age, bone structure, and health condition. 4. Advantages of Hip Replacement Surgery - It can significantly reduce hip pain. - It can increase walking and range of motion. - It can make daily activities easier. - It can improve quality of life. However, the same result may not be achieved in every patient. 5. Recovery Process After Surgery After hip replacement surgery, early movement and rehabilitation are important. Many patients can start walking in the first days after surgery with the support of the healthcare team. The recovery period may take weeks or months. Physical therapy helps increase muscle strength and move safely. 6. What Are the Risks of Hip Replacement Surgery? Like every surgical procedure, hip replacement surgery has risks: - Infection - Blood clot formation in the vessels - Dislocation of the prosthesis - Loosening or wear of the prosthesis - Leg length difference - Nerve or vessel injury To reduce the risks, pre-operative evaluation and post-operative follow-up are important. 7. Hip Replacement Surgery in Türkiye Total, partial, and revision hip replacement surgeries are performed at orthopedic centers in Türkiye. Minimally invasive approaches, computer-assisted systems, and robotic surgery options may be available at some hospitals. Patients coming from abroad can compare hospitals' surgeon experience, prosthesis options, rehabilitation services, and treatment costs. 8. How to Choose a Hospital for Hip Replacement? The following criteria are important in choosing a hospital: - The orthopedic surgeon's experience in hip replacement - The characteristics of the prosthesis used - The hospital's infection prevention practices - Post-operative care facilities - Physical therapy and rehabilitation services Choosing the right hospital requires planning not only the surgery but also a safe recovery process. Conclusion Hip replacement surgery is a treatment that can improve quality of life in suitable patients who experience pain and movement limitation due to advanced joint damage. Compare hip replacement centers in Türkiye, learn about treatment options and costs. Take a conscious step to move more comfortably.