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What is Hip Reconstruction?

Hip reconstruction is a surgery to repair or replace a damaged hip joint that causes pain and limits your movement.

Anatomy of the Hip Joint

The hip is a ball-and-socket joint; the ball is formed by the head of the humerus (thighbone) and the socket by the pelvic bones. The joint is covered by ligaments that form a capsule around it. Tendons attached to muscles in the pelvis, thighs, and buttocks help move the hip joint.

When is Hip Reconstruction Indicated?

Hip reconstruction is recommended when the hip is painful and cannot function properly. This may be due to:

  • Arthritis: Wearing of cartilage lining the joint
  • Injury: Trauma or overuse
  • Osteonecrosis: Bone damage due to a poor blood supply

Damage to the hip joint can cause a fracture to the bones involved in the joint, i.e. the femur and the pelvic bones. Hip reconstruction is recommended to repair these fractures and stabilize the hip joint.

A hip reconstruction may be necessary for fractures due to:

  • Motor vehicle accidents
  • Hard falls 
  • Osteoporosis (bone weakness), which increases with age and may be caused by simple stresses such as running or twisting

What are the Procedures involved in Hip Reconstruction?

The procedures performed in hip reconstruction include:

Hip Replacement

Hip replacement surgery involves replacing the damaged or diseased parts of the hip joint with an implant(s). A total or partial hip replacement may be performed where all the parts of the joint or only one of the bones damaged are replaced, respectively.

How will your Doctor Decide on the Right Procedure for Hip Reconstruction?

Your doctor will decide on the appropriate treatment for you after evaluating your condition and the specific anatomy of your hip.

What can you Expect After Hip Reconstruction?

Following the procedure, you will receive medication for pain and will undergo physical therapy to improve strength, movement, and balance. Your doctor will monitor your progress to ensure successful rehabilitation.

  • American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery logo
  • American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons logo
  • Massachusetts General Hospital logo
  • Case Western Reserve University logo
  • Iowa Orthopaedic Center logo
  • American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons (AAHKS) logo