Hip Replacement Surgery

What is Hip Replacement Surgery?

Hip replacement (total hip arthroplasty) is a surgical procedure in which a damaged or diseased hip joint is replaced with an artificial implant. The procedure aims to relieve pain, improve mobility, and restore quality of life for patients whose hip joints have been damaged — most commonly by osteoarthritis.

Each year, around 100,000 hip replacements are performed in the UK, making it one of the most common and successful surgical procedures available.

When is Hip Replacement Recommended?

Your doctor may recommend a hip replacement if:

• You have persistent hip pain that limits everyday activities such as walking, dressing, or climbing stairs
• Hip pain continues while resting, including at night
• Non-surgical treatments (physiotherapy, anti-inflammatories, steroid injections) have not provided adequate relief
• X-rays show significant joint damage consistent with arthritis
• Your quality of life is significantly reduced due to hip pain or stiffness

Types of Hip Replacement

Total Hip Replacement

The most common procedure. Both the femoral head (ball) and the acetabulum (socket) are replaced with artificial components — typically a metal or ceramic ball on a metal stem, fitting into a plastic, ceramic, or metal cup.

Partial (Hemi) Hip Replacement

Only the femoral head is replaced, not the socket. Usually performed for hip fractures rather than arthritis.

Hip Resurfacing

Instead of removing the femoral head, the bone is reshaped and capped with a metal covering. Better suited to younger, active patients with good bone quality.

What Happens During Surgery?

Under general or spinal anaesthetic, the surgeon makes an incision to access the hip joint. The damaged femoral head is removed, and the acetabulum is prepared. The artificial components are then fitted — either pressed tightly (uncemented) or fixed in place with bone cement. The procedure typically takes 1–2 hours.

Risks and Complications

Hip replacement is generally very safe, but all surgery carries some risk:

• Blood clots (DVT/PE) — preventable with blood thinners and early mobilisation
• Infection — minimised by sterile technique and preventive antibiotics
• Dislocation — the new joint can occasionally dislocate, especially in the first few months
• Leg length discrepancy — slight differences in leg length may occur
• Implant loosening — may require revision surgery in the longer term
• Nerve or blood vessel damage — rare but possible

Recovery After Hip Replacement

Most patients stand and take a few steps on the same day as surgery with the help of a physiotherapist. You can typically expect:

• Hospital stay: 1–3 days for straightforward cases
• Walking aids: Crutches or a frame for 4–6 weeks
• Return to driving: 6–8 weeks (right hip) or 4–6 weeks (left hip, automatic car)
• Return to work: 6–12 weeks depending on job type
• Full recovery: 6–12 months for complete improvement

Accessing Hip Replacement in North Wales

Hip replacement surgery in North Wales is provided through the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB). You will typically need a GP referral to an orthopaedic consultant, who will assess your suitability and add you to the surgical waiting list if appropriate.

Private hip replacement surgery is also available at independent hospitals in the region, which may offer shorter waiting times.