Hip Fracture hemiarthroplasty

Technique:

A hemiarthroplasty is an operation that is used most commonly to treat a fractured hip. The operation is similar to a total hip replacement, but it involves only half of the hip. The hemiarthroplasty replaces only the ball portion of the hip joint, not the socket portion to begin; Dr. Ahluwalia makes an incision on the side of the thigh to allow access to the hip joint. 

What to Expect-Day of Surgery:

This is an inpatient surgery. The average stay in the hospital is 1-2 days. The procedure takes 1-2 hours depending on the complexity. Usually spinal or general anesthesia is used. Your anesthesiologist will discuss this with you prior to the surgery.

What to Expect-After Surgery:

After the surgery you will do physical therapy every day. Your dressing will be changed on the second or third day after surgery. There is a risk of developing blood clots in the legs after this surgery and hence, you will receive an injection of a type of "heparin" to prevent this. You will continue this at home for 2-3 weeks. Most likely, you will be discharged home. Occasionally, if you need the additional help, you may go to a rehab facility for a few days. Prior to going home, all arrangements will be made to arrange for home visiting personnel, equipment and medicines. You will follow up with Dr. Ahluwalia in 10-14 days after surgery. At that visit, further physical therapy and activity restrictions will be discussed.