FAQ (Frequently asked questions) about artificial hips

Will my pain disappear with the use of artificial hips?

The troublesome arthritis pain will disappear after the operation. You will be able to move again without pain and so your quality of life will improve.

How long should you wait before having a hip operation? 

When a hip replacement should be fitted primarily depends on your pain. If conservative methods have not been successful and you have to put up with severe restrictions because of pain, then the intervention should not be delayed.

How long do I have to stay in hospital after a hip operation? 

Normally, in-patient hospitalisation lasts about 5-6 days. It may be possible to leave hospital sooner with the Rapid Recovery (link) treatment concept.

How long does a hip replacement last for? 

Research is very advanced due to the frequency of hip replacement.  On average, total hip replacement stay anchored for 15-20 years. For many patients, the duration is even longer. Only in a few cases will the prosthetic loosen in less time than this. If this happens, the prosthetic must be replaced. Countries like the UK, Australia and Sweden use national joint registries. The data of these registries show that in up 90% of the patients the hip replacement is still in place after 20 years.

How long will I need crutches for after the operation? 

You will need support crutches for about 6 weeks. You will gradually build up your muscles again with the aid of physiotherapy. As soon as there is enough strength for safe walking, you can take the first steps without crutches. Nevertheless, full weight bearing is allowed immediately after surgery in most of the patients. The crutches will help you to develop physiological walking again. In addition to that they will protect you from tripping or falling.

Can I take part in sports again with an artificial hip? 

Patients with total hip replacement can take part in so-called low-impact sports like cycling, swimming or hiking. You can in principle also take part in all other common sports, however this can mean that high loads in sports shorten the lifespan of the implant.

How soon will I be able to drive again? 

You will be able to start driving again after 6 weeks. This can be sooner in the event of a minimally invasive operation technique (approx. 3 weeks).

I am allergic to nickel. Is fitting an artificial hip possible? 

Yes, because most implants are made of titanium and can also be used for patients with a nickel allergy.

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