A hip replacement surgery has proven to be one of the most successful and effective orthopedic treatments among the majority of the population. Given its importance, these implants help in restoring the function of the hip joint while ensuring comfort and convenience to the patient. However, even after so many years of the implant’s existence, the patients and orthopedic surgeons are still stuck with a question: Can a hip replacement implant last for a lifetime?
In this blog, we shall break down every aspect of this implant and the factors that can affect its longevity. We will also learn how the surgeon’s expertise, the patient’s cooperation, and the implant’s quality play an important role in deciding the outcome of a hip replacement surgery.
Let’s Understand the Longevity of Hip Replacement Implant
Comprehending the longevity of a hip replacement implant requires you to remember that there is no single factor affecting an implant. These orthopedic devices are created by the manufacturers and used by surgeons with the hope that they will last for decades. The advanced technology and quality material used to manufacture these implants ensure that a single piece lasts for at least 15-20 years.
Top 5 Factors That Affect Hip Replacement Implant Life
There are certain factors that both patients and surgeons need to be aware of. Be very cautious of applying the following factors to your implant, or you might end up needing a revision surgery.
-
Patient’s Age: Young patients are very active and hence, they cause a lot of physical exertion on the implants, which can cause their faster wear. On the contrary, older adults can enjoy convenience for a longer time, due to their less active lives.
-
Height & Weight: Managing a healthy weight as per your height reduces unwanted stress on the affected joint, which in turn eliminates stress on the implant.
-
Activity Level: The low-intensity physical activity causes no effect on the implant, but the same is not true with high-intensity activities. For athletes, it is challenging to ensure their implants’ longevity due to their intense activity level. Their physical activity strains joint replacement implants, particularly hip and knee replacement implants.
-
Implant Quality & Surgical Expertise: The composition and framework of an orthopedic implant should align with the safety standards and medical guidelines. Advanced materials, like titanium alloy or stainless steel 316, are combined with modern surgical techniques for lasting impact.
-
Follow-up Care: Early detection of problems and maintaining healthy joints depend heavily on routine medical examinations and rigorous adherence to rehabilitation guidelines.
What are the Common Reasons to Choose Revision of Hip Replacement Implant Surgery?
Although hip replacement implants are designed keeping in mind that they shall last for decades, their role is both mechanical and biological, which makes them subject to damage and risks. It is why you must always understand why some of the orthopedic implants do not last for long, and how one must set a realistic expectation.
We shall now discuss some of the common reasons that lead to implant failure. These reasons let you recognize the warning signs on time and empower you to follow up on rehabilitation from the experts without any delay. Staying proactive after such surgeries is always beneficial to ensure the best outcomes.
The most common reasons why revision surgery is needed for hip replacement are:
-
Implant Loosening: Gradual bone loss and improper internal fixation of an implant can cause its loosening from the affected joint. This can cause throbbing pain, instability of the hip joint, and major walking difficulty.
-
Wear & Tear: This one is the most common when it comes to joint implants due to constant rubbing of the bones with each other and pressure exerted by an external force.
-
Dislocation or Instability: Dislocation happens when a part of the joint moves from its position in the socket. The main reasons behind this can be weak tissues and improper alignment of the implant.
-
Infection: The surgical treatments are carried out in a sterile environment to lower the postoperative infection rates, but germs that stick to the implant might cause serious inflammation. Revision surgery may be required if infection weakens the surrounding bone and tissues.
-
Mechanical Failure: A mechanical failure occurs when any component of the hip replacement implant breaks due to material design, repeated external forces, etc.
-
Poor Bone Quality: Patients with weak osteoporotic bones are always at risk of implant failures, which compromises the implant's stability.
An in-depth understanding of these reasons will not just prevent implant issues, but also focus on the fact that implant longevity depends on various factors altogether.
When Do You Need A Revision Surgery?
A revision hip replacement surgery is necessary only if this orthopedic device wears out and is in a compromised condition. Revision of an orthopedic surgery is a complicated procedure when compared to the initial surgery. Hence, the focus is always on conserving the first implant for as long as possible. The patient can do this by making smart choices and following a proper post-operative management routine.
The Takeaway Notes
No hip replacement implant guarantees a lifetime of mobility to the patient; instead, it is a set of factors that decides this. Therefore, it is always wise to follow the best preventative measures to maximize the longevity of orthopedic implants, including hip replacement implants.
Being India’s top orthopedic implants manufacturer – Sharma Orthopedic, we work closely with our expert team to create healthy choices with excellent product quality for you. So, if you are considering a hip replacement, then reach out to the Sharma Orthopedic team to begin your journey towards comfortable mobility.