An Overview of Total Hip Replacement Surgery in Thailand

Total hip replacement surgery, also known as a total hip arthroplasty, is a procedure that removes damaged cartilage and bone tissues from a hip joint and replaces them with prosthetic elements. The techniques and technology used to perform this kind of surgery has been improving since the 1960s, and today, hip replacement is one of the most successful medical procedures.

When is Total Hip Replacement Needed?

Several conditions can cause chronic hip pain and create a need for a total hip replacement. One of the most common causes of hip replacement is osteoarthritis, which causes the gradual degradation of the cartilage around the hip joint and typically affects people over 50 years of age.

Other forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis caused by autoimmune disease or post-traumatic arthritis caused by a severe hip injury or fracture, can also lead to chronic hip pain and disability. In addition to arthritis, childhood hip disease or hip injuries that limit blood flow to the hip socket can create a need for a total hip replacement surgery.

If you experience chronic hip pain or the inability to move your hip normally, you may require total hip replacement surgery. A doctor might recommend this procedure if your hip pain is limiting daily activities, if the pain in your hip continues while you are sleeping or resting, or if stiffness of the joint limits your ability to walk and move around. If other approaches to resolving your hip pain, such as physical therapy or walking supports have not shown improvements, your doctors will then recommend hip replacing surgery.  

Stages of Total Hip Replacement Process

Orthopaedic Evaluation

If you are interested in total hip replacement, the first step is to talk to a Hip-Knee  specialist. Doctor will perform physical examination to see  how much your hip pain is limiting your mobility.

During the evaluation, your doctor will look at your medical history and perform a physical test to assess your hip strength, mobility and alignment. They may also perform an x-ray or MRI scan to get clear pictures of your hip joint’s condition.

Preparation for Surgery

After recommending surgery, your doctor may suggest that you undergo a full physical evaluation to ensure there are no underlying health issues that may cause complications during surgery. This could include urine and blood tests and an electrocardiogram. Your doctor may also recommend that you stop taking certain medications before the procedure.

Hip Replacement Procedure

When you arrive at the hospital, the doctors will discuss the details of your surgery, including the prosthetic that will be used, so you are prepared and fully informed. You will then be given anesthesia before the procedure.

The surgical procedure itself will take 1-2 hours, and afterward, you will be moved to a recovery room for several hours for monitoring as you come out of the anesthesia. You will either be kept overnight at the hospital or discharged to go home the same day based on your doctor’s recommendation.

At Vejthani Hospital, we are specialized in minimally invasive hip surgeries and Computer Assisted Surgery. It increases accuracy and precision of prosthesis replacement,   meaning it essens perioperative blood loss and lessens injury to the muscles and ligaments of hip that result in early and fast recovery. Allowing patients to stand on their feet within 6-12 hours after the surgery.

After Surgery

Home care after the procedure is an important part of the recovery to ensure that surgery is successful. Medications  will be provided for  recovery as well as  instructions for  wound care will. Stitches will usually be taken out around two weeks after the  surgery.

As you recover, you will also gradually be able to move around more. You need to follow your doctor’s instructions and perform the appropriate exercises to strengthen your new hip joint. You should regain the ability to do most normal daily activities within 3 to 6 weeks of surgery.

Joint Replacement Facilities at Vejthani Hospital

Vejthani Hospital is an excellent choice for hip replacement surgery. Our expert surgeons have gained international recognition for their arthroplasty procedure skills.

Book a consultation with one of our specialists to find out more about total hip replacement in Thailand.