Common questions relating to Hip Surgery

How long will I be in hospital and what should I bring?

You can expect to be in hospital for 1-2 days.

Remember to bring the following items with you into hospital:

• A toiletry bag containing soap, a toothbrush and toothpaste, shampoo and conditioner, deodorant, shaving kit etc.
• Dressing gown
• Non-slip slippers that are easy to put on.
• Spare clothes and a set of clothes in which to go home.
• Books or magazines
• Reading glasses
• Relevant telephone contact numbers
  

Ladies

Two or three front-fastening, knee length nightgowns. Long ones restrict movement.
A few changes of comfortable underwear.

Gentlemen

Two or three pairs of pyjamas. A few pairs of boxer shorts or underpants

What are the risks of Total Hip Replacement surgery?

Risks and complications with total hip replacement are similar to those associated with other joint replacements. 

The most serious complication is infection of the hip joint, which occurs in <1% of patients. 

• Common complications (2- 5%): pain, bleeding, DVT, knee stiffness, prosthesis wear, altered leg length, joint dislocation
• Less common (1-2%): Infection
• Rare (< 1%): PE, altered wound healing, nerve damage, bone damage, blood vessel damage, death

When can I drive again?

You can resume driving when you feel safe enough to do so. This is usually around 4 to 6 weeks after your surgery. You should contact your insurance company and inform them of your circumstances.

When can I go back to work?

Depending on the job you do, you can usually return to work 8 to 12 weeks after your hip replacement operation. You should liaise with your employer and consider a phased return to work with amended duties for at least 8-12 weeks after returning to work. 

When can I do housework?

You should be able to help with light domestic chores within a few weeks after your surgery. You should avoid heavy tasks like vacuum cleaning and changing beds for at least 6 weeks after your surgery. You should avoid prolonged periods of standing or strenuous activity for at least 3 months after your knee replacement surgery.

When can I have sex after a total hip replacement?

You should be able to engage in sexual activity 6 to 8 weeks, after your hip replacement surgery. You should avoid vigorous sex and kneeling positions.

When can I kneel after a hip replacement

You could try kneeling at 3 months after your hip replacement. However, the majority of the people who have a hip replacement will have to take precautions with kneeling to avoid dislocation of the hip joint (joint popping out). Please discuss with your surgeon.  

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