Hip Replacement Surgery: What Can I Expect?

This episode explores the essentials of hip replacement surgery, providing patients with a clear understanding of what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.

Mary K. Mulcahey, MD, FAAOS, Editor-in-Chief of OrthoInfo, is joined by Neil Sheth, MD, FAAOS, Chief of Orthopedic Surgery at Pennsylvania Hospital. Together, they answer frequently asked questions about hip replacement: who is an appropriate candidate, how technology and materials have advanced, presurgical preparation, what the surgery entails, how long it takes, and what patients can expect in terms of recovery, rehabilitation and return to activity. The discussion touches on important considerations such as post-surgery pain management (including opioids), potential complications, metal allergies, and implant failure.

Dr. Sheth also talks about when to see a doctor for hip pain and where to start, given that there are different types of doctors who treat hip pain and patients may not know who to see initially. He explains what an Adult Reconstruction surgeon is and clarifies which symptoms and conditions he and his colleagues do and do not address.

Host: Mary K. Mulcahey, MD, FAAOS
Guest: Neil Sheth, MD, FAAOS