Healthopedia.com - Your Health
Encyclopedia

Set Homepage Email Page Favorites      

 
  Home
  Health Centers
  Medical Encyclopedia
  Drugs & Medications
  Diseases & Conditions 
  Medical Symptoms
  Medical Tests & Exams
  Surgery & Procedures 
  Injuries & Wounds
  Diet & Nutrition
  Special Topics
  Pictures & Images      


Google
 
Web Healthopedia.com

You are here : Healthopedia.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Surgeries and Procedures > Hip Joint Replacement: Home Care and Complications
      Category : Health Centers > Bones, Joints, and Muscles

Hip Joint Replacement

Alternate Names : Total Hip Replacement, THR, Total Hip Arthroplasty

Hip Joint Replacement | Preparation & Expectations | Home Care and Complications | Attribution


What happens later at home?

By the time the person leaves the hospital, he or she should be able to get around using crutches or a walker. Physical therapy may be continued after discharge. Some people need to go to a rehabilitation center after leaving the hospital. This is done when a person needs extra time to gain enough independence to be able to get around at home. Complete recovery from this surgery usually takes 3 to 6 months.

What are the potential complications after the procedure?

Surgery may cause bleeding, infection, and allergic reactions to anesthesia. Pain medications or antibiotics may cause stomach upset, allergic reactions, or rash.

Following are the most common complications of a hip joint replacement:

  • blood clot in the leg, or deep venous thrombosis. To prevent blood clots, medications called blood thinners may be given. The person is asked to move around shortly after surgery and may need to wear support stockings.
  • wound infection. To prevent this complication, antibiotics may be given.
  • bleeding. Sometimes a blood transfusion may be needed.
  • hip dislocation, which means the ball becomes dislodged from the socket. This may occur if the hip is placed in certain positions. The person is taught exercises before leaving the hospital to help prevent this. The individual will also learn which activities to avoid, such as crossing the legs, to prevent hip dislocation.
  • Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.


    Previous section

     

    Next section

    Hip Joint Replacement: Preparation & Expectations

     

    Hip Joint Replacement: Attribution

    Author: Gail Hendrickson, RN, BS
    Reviewer: Eileen McLaughlin, RN, BSN
    Date Reviewed: 07/13/01









    Content provided by The Patient Marketing Group, Inc.

    Copyright © 2006 Healthopedia.com All Rights reserved.
    About Us | Help/FAQ | Privacy Policy | Editorial Policy | Advertising Policy | Accessibility | Terms of Use
    Contact Us | Link to Us

    HONcode accreditation seal.

    We comply with the HONcode standard for health trust worthy information: verify here.


    The information provided herein is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. The information should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call your local emergency number for all medical emergencies. Use of this online service is subject to the disclaimer and the terms and conditions. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites.
    Page Last Updated: 30th May, 2006