Hip resurfacing surgery

Need to know

• What happens during hip resurfacing surgery? icon plus

  Hip resurfacing surgery is usually carried out under general anaesthetic. Alternatively, it's sometimes carried out after a spinal epidural injection to block the pain in your lower half.
  
  Your surgeon will reshape the ball joint of your hip and fit it with a metal sphere, leaving the head and neck of the thigh bone intact. The socket, or cup part of your joint, will be fitted with a metal shell.

• How to prepare for hip resurfacing icon plus

  Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you. They'll also explain what's involved in the procedure. And they'll let you know how long it should take you to recover.
  
  Before the operation, you can plan ahead to make your life easier during your recovery. It's a good idea to arrange for a friend or a family member to help you with tasks such as shopping, bathing and laundry during this time. You may also want to consider installing handrails in your bath, shower and staircase in your home to help during your recovery.

• After your surgery icon plus

  You'll be cared for in hospital for a few days after the operation. After surgery, our physiotherapy team will encourage you to stand up and walk a little with the help of crutches. They'll also give you exercises to practise to help to strengthen your hip and legs.

  You should be able to go home after three to five days. You'll need to use crutches, a walker or walking sticks for a few weeks. Your consultant will let you know when you can get back to your usual routine, including work or exercise.