Latest Posts:
Hip pain is one of the most common reasons why patients seek help from orthopedic specialists. The reasons are numerous – from degenerative changes such as arthritis, through the consequences of injuries and sports trauma, to the natural aging process. As life expectancy increases, so does the number of people experiencing chronic hip pain and limited mobility.
When conservative methods no longer help, the solution is offered by hip joint endoprosthesis, that is, a surgical procedure for the implantation of an artificial hip that has become one of the most successful procedures in modern orthopedics. Thanks to advances in surgery and rehabilitation, patients after hip surgery in Split and other centers are increasingly witnessing a return to pain-free walking, daily activities, and significant improvement in quality of life.
In this article, we explain when it is time to think about surgery, what the procedure itself involves, and what recovery looks like after the implantation of the prosthesis.
What is a hip joint endoprosthesis and who is it intended for?
Hip joint endoprosthesis, often referred to as artificial hip, represents a surgically implanted device that replaces the damaged hip joint. Most often, it is a total prosthesis, which completely replaces both parts of the joint – the acetabulum (socket) and the head of the femur. In certain cases, for example after specific fractures or in patients for whom it is not necessary to replace the entire joint, a partial prosthesis, which replaces only one part, may also be implanted.
Candidates for hip joint endoprosthesis surgery are most commonly individuals suffering from degenerative diseases such as arthritis or osteoarthritis, where the joint gradually wears down and causes severe pain. Additionally, the prosthesis is implanted after severe hip injuries, such as fractures in older individuals, as well as in cases of rheumatic diseases that lead to joint degeneration.
The main criterion is that the patient has chronic pain and significantly limited mobility despite conservative treatment methods such as physical therapy, medications, or injections. In such cases, the hip joint endoprosthesis becomes a solution that enables a return to pain-free movement and normal life.
When is hip surgery necessary?
In most cases, orthopedic specialists first try conservative treatment methods such as pain relief and anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, injections of hyaluronic acid or corticosteroids. These measures can temporarily alleviate discomfort and slow disease progression. However, when pain remains persistent and quality of life significantly declines, then hip surgery is the only permanent solution.
Typical signs that it is time for surgical intervention include severe hip pain, especially when walking or climbing stairs, followed by limited mobility of the joint and a feeling of stiffness. Night pain often occurs, preventing patients from sleeping, and over time it becomes difficult to perform even basic daily activities such as dressing or sitting.The decision about when hip surgery is needed
is made based on a detailed orthopedic examination, analysis of radiological images (X-rays or MRIs), and assessment of functional limitations. When hip pain does not respond to conservative treatment and hinders normal life, surgery becomes necessary and yields the best long-term results.What does hip joint endoprosthesis surgery look like?The implantation of a hip joint endoprosthesis is considered one of the most successful procedures in modern orthopedics. The
hip surgery
itself lasts on average from 60 to 90 minutes and is performed under general or regional anesthesia. The surgeon removes damaged parts of the joint and implants a prosthesis made from high-quality materials (metal, ceramics, polyethylene) that ensure long-lasting stability and a natural feeling of movement.READERS ASK, EXPERTS ANSWER Anesthesia – should I be afraid?Thanks to modern techniques, blood loss is minimal, and patients can usually start taking their first steps with the help of a physiotherapist shortly after the procedure. Previous
hip surgery experiences
in patients show that most feel significant pain relief and improved mobility within the first few days of recovery.At Priska Med Polyclinic
, this procedure is performed under top conditions, without long waiting lists, allowing patients quick access and assurance that their surgery will be performed by an experienced orthopedic team. We are among the few private institutions in the region that offer such a complex yet safe procedure. If you are looking for private hip surgery in Split, Priska Med provides complete care from diagnosis and surgery to rehabilitation at our widely recognized Department of Physical Medicine.Possible complications and the durability of hip joint endoprosthesisAs with any surgical procedure, there are certain risks involved in the implantation of an artificial hip, but serious complications are rare. The most commonly mentioned risks include
infection, bleeding, thrombosis
or dislocation of the prosthesis, but with modern techniques and proper postoperative care, these risks are minimized. Patients themselves also play an important role, as adhering to movement and rehabilitation instructions significantly reduces the possibility of issues.Regarding the durability of the hip joint endoprosthesis
, it is very high. Today's materials and techniques allow the prosthesis to last 15 to 20 years, and in many cases even longer. In younger and more physically active patients, earlier wear may occur, while older patients often use the same prosthesis for their entire life.In situations where wear or complications occur, a so-called revision surgery
is performed, during which the prosthesis is replaced with a new one. Although it is a more complex procedure, the results are also very good, restoring mobility and quality of life to patients. Overall, a hip joint endoprosthesis represents a safe and long-lasting solution, and with proper care and regular check-ups, it can serve for decades.Recovery after hip joint endoprosthesis implantationThe first steps begin very quickly, often on the day of surgery, with patients getting out of bed with the help of a physiotherapist and making their first movements. Initially, walkers or crutches are used, with an emphasis on safe movement and preventing complications. After just a few days, patients can walk independently with assistance, and the length of walking gradually increases.
Organized
rehabilitation
typically lasts several weeks and includes exercises to strengthen muscles, improve balance, and learn proper movements. Most patients switch to independent walking after 6 to 8 weeks, while full functionality is usually achieved within 3 to 6 months.Returning to daily activities such as driving, climbing stairs, or light sports activities is possible after several months, depending on the progress of rehabilitation and overall health status. The key to a successful recovery is patience, regular physiotherapy, and following the expert's instructions.Hip joint endoprosthesis at Priska Med Polyclinic
Priska Med Polyclinic is one of only a few
private institutions in Croatia
where hip joint endoprosthesis implantation is performed. This provides patients a unique opportunity to undergo surgery quickly, safely, and without long waiting lists, in top conditions and with complete dedication from the expert team.Our strengths lie in the experience and knowledge of top orthopedic surgeons
, the use of modern surgical equipment, and the individual approach to each patient. Every decision regarding surgery is made carefully, based on a detailed orthopedic examination and in consultation with the patient, to ensure the best and longest-lasting outcome.We place special emphasis on multidisciplinary collaboration
. Orthopedists, anesthesiologists, physiatrists, and physiotherapists all participate in the treatment process, which ensures continuous care from the first examination and the surgery itself to complete rehabilitation.ConclusionHip pain that limits walking, disrupts sleep, and makes daily activities difficult is not something to endure. When conservative methods no longer provide relief,
hip joint endoprosthesis
becomes a solution that restores mobility and quality of life. It is one of the safest and most successful procedures in modern medicine, with results that last for decades.Patients who have undergone surgery often describe the feeling as if they have received a "new life". Walking without pain, enjoying walks, biking, or simply getting out of bed effortlessly are changes that the endoprosthesis brings. This procedure means not only the removal of pain but also a return to independence, security, and social activities that have been limited for years. That is why the implantation of an artificial hip is considered one of the most revolutionary achievements of modern orthopedics.At
Priska Med Polyclinic
in Split, you can undergo hip joint endoprosthesis implantation quickly, safely, and without waiting, with the support of an experienced orthopedic and multidisciplinary team. Our approach is based on expertise, modern technology, and individualized care for each patient.📞 021 44 33 44📧
poliklinika@priska-med.com
💻 directly through our contact form
hip-endoprosthesis--when-it-is-necessary-and-what-recovery-looks-likeizravno putem naše kontakt forme