Dispelling a Few Myths

From time to time, advertorials and editorials appear in newspapers and the mainstream media with claims suggesting that there is a new surgical technique which eliminates the pain and recovery time associated with hip replacement surgery. Be aware there really is no such thing as a magic, overnight, pain free hip replacement.

"Minimally invasive surgery (a small wound/scar) means my operation will be less painful and/or more successful"

Patients hear about "minimally invasive surgery" and think that a very small scar means there is a better result, because there is less trauma and less soft tissue damage. It may sound attractive and plausible but in reality, the size of the scar (e.g. 5cm or 15 cm) is not a good indicator of this. . The surgeon's aim is to make the exposure as small as it can be whilst giving optimal access to the hip joint so that the best possible operation can be done. The goal of surgery is to give you the best functioning hip replacement that lasts as long as possible.

"There's a new surgical technique or approach where the patient has total hip replacement surgery, throws away the crutches and goes home the next day"

It sounds too good to be true? It probably is. Of course, it is possible to have hip replacement surgery, take a significant dose of pain medication and go home the next day. The reality is that hip replacement is a major operation involving trauma to tissue and removal and replacement of bone. In the interests of your best recovery, there has to be a period of recuperation and rehabilitation.

Our experience is that it is much better to stay in hospital where you can be properly observed cared for. Apart from ensuring your joint is healing, all your major organs and body systems need to return to 'normal' after surgery. In hospital, medical staff pay special attention to your heart, lungs, urinary function and ensure a return to normal functioning before you go home. Even if your hip feels like it could walk you home, you cannot properly monitor other aspects of your health on your own if you are discharged too early. The Mater Hospital accommodates more patients for joint replacement surgery than any other hospital in Australia and they are ready to handle all the aspects of your post-operative care.

I want the newest hip replacement on the market - or - I want the same one as my friend

Dr Walter is involved in the design of hip implants with other surgeons around the world. He is very much in favour of developing newer and better designs. However, new technology and materials must be used with caution. Dr Walter uses only the best implants and will discuss the implant he thinks is best for you. This may not be the same as your friend because each patient has different bone quality and factors such as age, gender and anatomy will play a part in the choice of implant.