Hip Implant Risks - Prevention Better Than Cure

As every coin has two faces, surgery also has certain advantages and drawbacks associated with it. Likewise hip replacement surgery also carries certain hip implant risks. Besides the risk of infection and loosening, majority of revision surgeries are endangered with dislocation. The hip is a ball and socket type joint with the femoral head accommodating into the acetabular socket. This framework for replacements are stabilized by many ligaments, muscle tissue, cartilages and soft tissue; that prevents the head of the femur from dislocating out of the acetabulum during movements. In hip implants and replacements these structures are weakened, thereby making the hips predisposed to dislocation. Certain conditions have increased tendency of a hip implant risk. The risk of hip implants or replacements being dislocated is more in revision surgeries and malpositioning of hip replacement implants. Patient conditions also contribute to complications and hip implant risks.

Implant dislocations and complications are treated by reducing it under anesthesia. The hips usually get repositioned after treatment. Radiological studies are sought to confirm the reduction and any obvious cause for dislocation of a replacement. In case of multiple dislocations complications, revision surgery is performed using special implants.

To be on the safer side, it is better to take precautions rather than trying to cure complications of hip implants. In the post operative rehabilitation, avoid sitting cross legged or in low sofas and chairs. It is better to sleep on the back instead of lying on your side. Care should be exercised in preventing legs from bending up above the knee height. These activities may put the implant at risk of being dislocated.

Also see; hip replacement complications.

About The Author:

Dr. Bharat Sharma is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.hip-replacement-care.com. He has been working in the medical rehab field for more than a decade. Keeping up to date with techological advancements he has become a self appointed expert.