Are there risks associated with hip replacement surgery?

Yes, like any surgical procedure, hip replacement surgery carries certain potential risks and complications. These common risks include prosthetic joint dislocation, infection, and blood clots. Other complications may occur, such as joint wear or fractures of the bone surrounding the prosthetic joint, and some cases may require revision surgery.

Common Complications After Hip Replacement Surgery

Hip replacement surgery is an effective procedure to relieve pain and improve mobility, but it is important to understand the potential complications. One of the most notable complications is joint dislocation, where the ball can slip out of the prosthetic socket, especially since the prosthetic joint is often smaller than the original natural joint [3]. Common risks also include infection in the bones surrounding the prosthetic joint or at the surgical site, and blood clots, such as deep vein thrombosis [3]. A rehabilitation program and exercise regimen can help reduce stiffness and strengthen muscles to improve recovery and minimize some of these risks [1].

Risks Associated with Certain Types of Implants

In some cases, complications specific to the type of implant used may occur. For example, metal-on-metal (MoM) implants can cause reactions around the joint due to the release of metal particles, which can lead to deterioration of the tissues surrounding the joint and device failure [2]. These metal particles can enter the bloodstream and cause health issues in other parts of the body, such as the skin, kidneys, heart, thyroid, and nervous system [2]. Therefore, surgeons rarely use metal-on-metal surfaces due to these potential complications [1]. Patients with metal-on-metal implants must report any new or worsening symptoms such as pain, swelling, numbness, or changes in walking ability, as well as any other systemic symptoms, to their treating physician [2].

The Need for Revision Surgery

Some people may require revision surgery, which is a procedure to replace the artificial joint. This may happen if certain complications develop, such as the prosthetic joint loosening from the bone—causing pain and bone loss—fractures around the prosthetic joint, or joint dislocation [1]. Infection or local or systemic reactions to metal can also be reasons for revision surgery [2]. Revision surgery itself carries additional risks, including reactions to anesthesia, infection, bleeding, and blood clots, and it may be more difficult if there are local reactions that have affected soft tissue or bone quality [2].

Proper Preparation Reduces Risks

Proper preparation before surgery is critical to minimizing the risk of complications and improving recovery. You should be in the best possible health before surgery [1]. If you smoke, attempting to quit or cut down can help. If you are overweight, weight loss can reduce the risk of complications during or after surgery [1]. Speak with your healthcare team about what to expect and ask about exercises you can perform to strengthen your muscles before the surgery. You can learn more about preparation and recovery by visiting Hip Replacement Surgery: Preparation, Procedure, and Full Recovery (Arabic).

When Should You Seek Medical Help?

It is essential to contact your orthopedic surgeon immediately if you develop any new or worsening symptoms after hip replacement surgery. These symptoms include hip or groin pain, swelling, numbness, weakness, hearing abnormal sounds (such as clicking or grinding) in the hip, or a change in walking ability [2]. If you have a metal-on-metal implant and develop any systemic symptoms such as a skin rash, heart problems, neurological or psychological changes, impaired kidney function, or thyroid dysfunction, you must report this to your primary care physician [2].

Medical references

• Hip Replacement Surgery
• Metal-on-Metal Hip Implants: Information for Patients
• Hip Replacement