$Unique_ID{BRK00824}
$Pretitle{Musculoskeletal System and Connective Tissue, Special Procedures and
Laboratory Tests}
$Title{Is a Hip Replacement Operation a Good Idea for Terrible Arthritis?}
$Subject{hip replacement surgery arthritis}
$Volume{M-17, P-17}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Is a Hip Replacement Operation a Good Idea for Terrible Arthritis?


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QUESTION:  Can you tell me if you think a hip replacement operation is a good
idea for me?  I have terrible arthritis.

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ANSWER:  Arthritic hip disease is a serious medical condition, experienced as
pain originating in the groin or buttock, and traveling down the anterior
thigh to the knee.  Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is one method for relieving
this condition; it has become an accepted surgical practice in the U.S. today,
with approximately 100,000 such procedures (in which prosthetic parts are
attached via acrylic bone cement) performed annually.
     THA is not for everyone, and a decision on undertaking the procedure
depends on factors such as your age, weight, employment, and emotional
orientation.  THA cannot make the hip function "like new," nor can it
withstand excessive stress.  Those who work or hobbies require them to be
physically active may prefer to endure a certain degree of pain in order to
continue their chosen life-styles.
     THA is the best bet for elderly patients experiencing the end stages of
hip disease.  Younger patients may be better off postponing THA, particularly
since cementless procedures (less prone to separation and more long-lasting)
are currently being explored.  An older procedure, known as intertrochanteric
osteotomy, or IO, may also be preferable for younger hip disease victims,
particularly those under 45.  Hip fusion is another alternative for younger,
male patients, often used as a temporary measure to postpone THA until a later
date.
     Since you didn't tell me too much about yourself, I will leave it to you,
and your doctor, to decide if this procedure will improve you life.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
