Hip Replacement FAQ

What is the difference between minimally invasive hip replacement and traditional hip replacement?

The difference is in the size of the skin incision and, more importantly, how much muscle and tissue is cut to put the total joint components in. Cutting less muscle results in less pain, less swelling and potentially a quicker recovery.

Is there a difference between the replacement hip prosthesis used in minimally invasive surgery and the one used in traditional surgery?

No, the same components are used in MIS hip replacement surgery that are used in traditional surgery.  They are just put in through smaller incisions in the skin and muscle using specialized instruments.  The components have a long track record of excellent performance.

How does Dr. Zechmann put in a new hip prosthesis through such small incisions?

By using specialized instruments and moving the ‘skin window' of tissue around, the components are able to be installed in the same precise alignment that is required for a stable, long lasting hip.

What is the average age of someone who undergoes minimally invasive hip replacement?

MIS techniques can be used on all patients, from patients in their 40's who have post-traumatic arthritis, to those in their 70s and 80s who are suffering from osteoarthritis.

How long do I need to maintain the hip replacement cautions?

Hip precautions refer to the limitations recommended following a hip replacement. These prevent the hip joint from dislocating (the ball coming out of the socket) prior to the soft tissue healing and strengthening.  The precautions are recommended for a period of six weeks.  They include preclusion from crossing one's legs, bending well beyond 90 degrees at the waist, or bending and contorting the hip to tie one's shoes. Once the soft tissues have healed sufficiently, these precautions can be dropped.

Will my insurance cover the minimally invasive hip replacement?

Yes, all insurances, including Medicare, pay for MIS total hip surgery. There is no difference in the surgical code used to bill for the MIS total hip surgery.  It is the same as for a traditional hip replacement.

When can I get back to full activity after my minimally invasive hip replacement?

Patients, with a few exceptions, are able to start putting full weight on the operative side the same day as surgery. Typically, patients are walking 100-200 feet by the second day after surgery.  A walker or crutches are recommended until patients feel confident enough and are stable enough to go to a cane - typically at one to two weeks after surgery.  Many of the younger patients are walking up to a mile without a cane or crutch by six weeks after surgery. At four months after surgery, a full golf swing is possible.

How long will I be in the hospital for my minimally invasive hip replacement?

This will depend on your age and level of fitness prior to the surgery.  If you have a spouse at home that can help with meals and household activities, it may be possible to go home as early as two or three days after surgery. 

If patients are older and live alone, a short stay in the Transitional Care Facility, a step-down hospital, may be appropriate for a period of seven to ten days prior to going home.

When can I drive after surgery?

Usually this is after about two to six weeks and you are not taking narcotic pain medications. Dr. Zechmann recommends that you can drive after hip surgery when you are comfortable getting in and out of you vehicle and are not using crutches or a walker.

When can I swim?

You can swim after hip surgery 4-5 days after any drainage has stopped.

When can I return to work?

This depends on what type of employment you have and the procedure that was done.  Dr. Zechmann or Mr. Jarman will give you work restrictions after surgery and your employer may or may not be able to accommodate those restrictions.  Check with you employer prior to surgery.

Do I need antibiotics prior to dental work after surgery?

Only after joint replacement surgery is this required.  Dr. Zechmann follows the American academy of orthopedic surgeon's recommendation that you take antibiotics for two years after having joint replacement surgery.