What is a total hip replacement?
Total hip replacement is a surgical procedure that involves replacing the worn surfaces of the hip joint with two custom-made prosthetic implants:
- a femoral stem topped with a spherical head,
- a hemispherical cup, inserted into the pelvis in place of the acetabulum.
The goal of this operation is to restore smooth joint function and provide lasting relief from pain associated with cartilage wear.
Dr. Coulin performs this surgery using modern techniques, such as minimally invasive surgery, when indicated. This approach reduces muscle damage, accelerates postoperative recovery, and improves patient comfort.
In which cases is the intervention indicated?
There hip prosthesis is mainly offered in case of advanced coxarthrosis, when :
- the pain becomes disabling,
- mobility is reduced,
- and that conventional medical treatments (painkillers, injections, physiotherapy) are no longer sufficient.
Other situations may require a total hip replacement :
- Arthritis inflammatory (rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis).
- Necrosis of the femoral head, when the blood supply is interrupted.
- Femoral neck fractures, especially in active patients.
- Congenital or post-traumatic deformities of the hip.
- Failure of conservative treatments, with loss of autonomy or severe discomfort.
When pain disrupts walking, sleeping, or quality of life, the hip replacement surgery becomes an effective and sustainable solution.
Why consider a hip replacement?
There coxarthrosis is a progressive and irreversible disease. As the cartilage disappears, the bone surfaces rub against each other, leading to:
- deep pain when walking,
- joint stiffness,
- and sometimes a loss of autonomy.
There total hip replacement allows to:
- relieve chronic pain,
- restore functional mobility,
- improve walking quality and posture,
- promote a return to an active life, including certain sporting activities.
How does the operation with Dr. Coulin work?
The procedure is performed under general or local anesthesia. Dr. Coulin prefers minimally invasive anterior approach, which involves accessing the hip joint by spreading the muscles rather than cutting them.
This surgical procedure allows:
- faster recovery,
- limited post-operative pain,
- more discreet scars.
The damaged joint surfaces are removed and then replaced by:
- a prosthetic cup fixed in the basin,
- a femoral stem with spherical head, ensuring smooth hip mobility.
Before the operation, Dr. Coulin uses tools of3D imaging and surgical planning to model the patient's anatomy. This precise preparation optimizes the positioning of the implants and guarantees biomechanics close to those of a natural hip.
What are the post-operative consequences ?
There rehabilitation begins within the first few hours after the operation. The patient is mobilized very quickly, with physiotherapy support.
- Day 0-1 : resumption of walking with assistance.
- Following days : gradual progression, work on balance and autonomy.
- Following weeks : muscle strengthening, recovery of range of motion and adaptation to everyday movements.
The objectives are clear:
- regaining autonomy quickly,
- to promote healing,
- and allow for a gradual adaptation to the prosthesis.
What results can we expect?
There total hip replacement offers excellent results:
- disappearance or significant reduction of pain,
- smooth gait without limping,
- significant improvement in mobility,
- resumption of daily activities and sometimes sports (swimming, cycling, hiking).
Modern hip prostheses have a lifespan of 20 to 25 years or more, with very high satisfaction rates.
The materials used today (ceramic, highly cross-linked polyethylene) have considerably reduced wear compared to previous generations of prostheses.
Recovery is usually rapid: most patients are walking again the day after the procedure, with a return to walking without assistance within a few weeks.
Are there any risks?
Like any surgery, the hip replacement involves certain risks:
- infection,
- dislocation,
- phlebitis,
- long-term wear or loosening.
Through rigorous protocols and careful monitoring, Dr. Coulin minimizes these complications and ensures a safe and lasting recovery.
Would you like to know more?
Are you suffering from persistent hip pain? Have you already tried medical treatments without success?
Dr. Coulin will see you for a consultation in Geneva to establish a precise diagnosis and discuss possible solutions with you, including: total hip replacement, adapted to your needs and your lifestyle.
