FREE ACCESS · 8 PAGES

Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA)

Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA) is a surgical procedure in which the diseased hip joint is replaced with prosthetic components, including an acetabular cup and a femoral stem with a prosthetic head. It is commonly performed for advanced osteoarthritis, femoral head avascular necrosis, inflammatory arthritis, and selected fractures. The aim is to relieve pain, restore mobility, and improve hip function and quality of life.

Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA), also known as total hip replacement, is a reconstructive procedure in which both the femoral head and the acetabular articular surface are replaced with artificial components. It is one of the most successful orthopaedic procedures for relieving pain and restoring function in patients with advanced hip joint disease. Common indications include end-stage osteoarthritis, avascular necrosis of the femoral head, inflammatory arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, certain femoral neck fractures, developmental hip disorders, and failed previous hip surgery. The procedure may be performed using cemented, uncemented, or hybrid fixation depending on factors such as age, bone quality, anatomy, and surgeon preference. The acetabular component usually consists of a metallic shell with a liner, while the femoral component consists of a stem and prosthetic head. Common bearing surfaces include ceramic-on-polyethylene, metal-on-polyethylene, and ceramic-on-ceramic. Surgical approaches include posterior, lateral, and anterior approaches, each with specific advantages and limitations. Preoperative planning involves clinical evaluation, radiographic templating, assessment of leg length and offset, and optimisation of medical comorbidities. Postoperative management includes pain control, thromboprophylaxis, early mobilisation, physiotherapy, and gradual restoration of weight-bearing and function. Potential complications include dislocation, infection, periprosthetic fracture, venous thromboembolism, limb-length discrepancy, nerve injury, aseptic loosening, and implant wear. With appropriate patient selection, surgical technique, and rehabilitation, THA can provide excellent long-term pain relief, mobility, and functional improvement.

Free to read with your Orthonotes account. Save your place and annotate as you learn.