Total Hip Arthroplasty

Total hip replacement (THR), also known as total hip arthroplasty, is one of the most successful surgeries in modern medicine. It is designed to relieve pain, improve mobility, and restore function for patients suffering from hip joint conditions, such as arthritis, fractures, or other degenerative diseases. Over the years, advancements in surgical techniques and implant technology have dramatically improved the effectiveness of THR, allowing patients to return to their normal activities and enjoy a pain-free life.

How Common It Is and Who Gets It? (Epidemiology)

Every year, more than 450,000 total hip replacements are performed in the United States. The majority of patients undergoing this surgery are between the ages of 50 and 80, with osteoarthritis being the most common reason for the procedure. Patients with chronic hip pain, restricted mobility, and severe arthritis may require this surgery when other conservative treatments, such as medications or physical therapy, fail to provide relief.

Why It Happens – Causes (Etiology and Pathophysiology)

The most common cause of hip pain and degeneration is osteoarthritis. In this condition, the cartilage in the hip joint breaks down, causing the bones to rub together and resulting in pain and stiffness. Other causes of hip joint degeneration include:

• Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and damage to the hip joint.
• Post-traumatic arthritis: Arthritis following a previous hip injury or fracture.
• Avascular necrosis: The loss of blood supply to the femoral head, leading to bone death.
• Hip fractures: Severe fractures of the femoral head or acetabulum may lead to joint dysfunction and arthritis.

How the Body Part Normally Works? (Relevant Anatomy)

The hip joint is a ball-and-socket joint formed by:

• The femoral head (the ball) at the upper end of the femur (thigh bone).
• The acetabulum (the socket), part of the pelvic bone.
  The surfaces of the ball and socket are lined with smooth articular cartilage that cushions the bones and allows for smooth movement. The joint is stabilized by ligaments and muscles surrounding the hip, providing both mobility and support.

What You Might Feel – Symptoms (Clinical Presentation)

Patients with hip arthritis typically experience:

• Severe pain during weight-bearing activities like walking, standing, or climbing stairs.
• Stiffness in the hip, leading to difficulty bending or lifting the leg.
• Pain at rest, especially at night or after prolonged sitting.
• Swelling and discomfort around the hip joint.
• Difficulty performing daily tasks like putting on shoes, sitting in a chair, or getting in and out of a car.

How Doctors Find the Problem? (Diagnosis and Imaging)

A comprehensive diagnosis includes:

• Physical examination: The surgeon will assess the hip’s range of motion, strength, and alignment.
• X-rays: These are crucial for visualizing the degree of joint degeneration and bone changes associated with arthritis.
• MRI or CT scans: These can provide detailed images of both bone and soft tissues, especially in cases of complex hip conditions.
• Bone scans: Sometimes used to assess the extent of damage to the bone.

Procedure Types or Techniques (Classification)

There are different approaches for total hip replacement surgery:

• Cemented vs. Cementless: The femoral stem and acetabular components can either be press-fit into the bone or secured with bone cement.
• Minimally invasive techniques: Smaller incisions and specialized tools are used to minimize trauma to surrounding tissues.
• Anterior vs. Posterior Approaches: The surgery can be performed through various access points, depending on the surgeon’s preference and patient anatomy.

Other Problems That Can Feel Similar (Differential Diagnosis)

• Trochanteric bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa on the outer side of the hip.
• Sciatica: Nerve pain radiating from the lower back to the hip and leg.
• Osteonecrosis: Bone death due to interrupted blood supply to the femoral head.
• Hip labral tear: Damage to the cartilage around the hip socket, causing pain and instability.

Treatment Options

Conservative treatments: Medications, physical therapy, weight management, and joint injections are often used before considering surgery.

Surgical treatment: Total hip replacement surgery is recommended when conservative treatments fail.

Recovery and What to Expect After Surgery

• Hospital Stay: Most patients stay in the hospital for 1-3 days, depending on their health and recovery progress.
• Physical Therapy: Therapy typically begins the day after surgery to help with mobility, strength, and reducing the risk of complications like blood clots.
• Pain Management: A multimodal approach (including non-opioid medications) helps manage pain during recovery.
• Full recovery: Most patients regain normal function and mobility within 3-6 months, although full recovery may take longer in older patients or those with other health conditions.

Possible Risks or Side Effects (Complications)

• Infection: Infection can occur in the wound or around the prosthesis, potentially requiring more surgery.
• Blood clots: DVT or pulmonary embolism can occur, which is why patients are encouraged to move as soon as possible.
• Dislocation: The prosthesis may dislocate, particularly in the first few months after surgery.
• Leg length discrepancy: Some patients experience minor length differences between legs after surgery.
• Implant loosening: Over time, the implant may loosen due to wear, necessitating a revision surgery.

Long-Term Outlook (Prognosis)

With proper care, most patients experience significant pain relief and an improved ability to perform daily activities. The implants typically last 15-20 years, although some patients, particularly younger, more active individuals, may require a revision surgery if the implant wears out or loosens.

Out-of-Pocket Costs

Medicare

CPT Code 27130 – Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty (Replacement of Both Acetabulum and Femoral Head): $303.45

CPT Code 27132 – Conversion to Total Hip Arthroplasty (Conversion of Prior Hip Surgery to Total Hip): $394.09

CPT Code 27134 – Revision THA (Both Components, Acetabular and Femoral): $448.00

CPT Code 27137 – Revision THA (Acetabular Component Only): $345.69

CPT Code 27138 – Revision THA (Femoral Component Only): $359.01

CPT Code 27125 – Hemiarthroplasty (Partial Hip Replacement, Replacement of Femoral Head Only): $268.14

Medicare Part B typically covers 80% of the approved cost for these procedures once your annual deductible has been met, leaving you responsible for the remaining 20%. Supplemental Insurance plans such as Medigap, AARP, or Blue Cross Blue Shield generally cover that remaining 20%, minimizing or eliminating out-of-pocket expenses for Medicare-approved surgeries. These plans coordinate with Medicare to fill the coverage gap and reduce patient costs.

If you have Secondary Insurance, such as TRICARE, an Employer-Based Plan, or Veterans Health Administration coverage, it serves as a secondary payer. These plans generally cover any remaining balance, including coinsurance or small deductibles, which typically range from $100 to $300, depending on your plan and provider network.

Workers’ Compensation

If your hip replacement or revision surgery is required due to a work-related injury, Workers’ Compensation will cover all associated medical expenses, including surgery, rehabilitation, and follow-up care. You will not have any out-of-pocket expenses, as the employer’s insurance carrier directly covers all approved treatments.

No-Fault Insurance

If your hip surgery is needed due to an automobile accident, No-Fault Insurance will typically cover the full cost of treatment, including surgery and postoperative care. The only potential out-of-pocket cost may be a small deductible or co-payment depending on your insurance policy.

Example

Thomas Johnson required a primary total hip arthroplasty (CPT 27130) due to arthritis, with an estimated Medicare out-of-pocket cost of $303.45. Later, he required a revision of both components (CPT 27134) with an estimated out-of-pocket cost of $448.00. Since Thomas had supplemental insurance through Blue Cross Blue Shield, both amounts were fully covered, leaving him with no out-of-pocket expenses for the procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. How long will my new hip last?
A. Most implants last 15-20 years, with some patients experiencing even longer durability.

Q. Can I run after hip replacement?
A. High-impact activities such as running are discouraged after surgery. Low-impact activities like walking, swimming, and cycling are ideal.

Summary and Takeaway

Total hip replacement is a highly effective procedure for individuals suffering from severe hip pain due to arthritis or other joint diseases. The surgery can dramatically improve quality of life by reducing pain, increasing mobility, and enabling patients to return to their normal activities.

Clinical Insight & Recent Findings

A recent study reviewed how osteoporosis affects patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA), highlighting that up to 73% of patients with low bone density remain undiagnosed before surgery, which can increase the risk of complications such as periprosthetic fractures, implant loosening, and higher revision rates.

The research emphasized that cemented implants generally provide better outcomes in osteoporotic bone, while specific cementless designs—such as ribbed, straight tapered, or titanium stems with medial calcar contact—may help preserve bone density when used correctly. Postoperative antiresorptive medications like zoledronate or risedronate were shown to reduce bone mineral loss and improve implant stability, though preoperative use of these drugs may worsen results.

Integrating these findings, total hip replacement remains a highly effective procedure for relieving pain and restoring mobility in patients with advanced arthritis, avascular necrosis, or fractures, and outcomes are optimized when bone health is evaluated and managed before surgery. (“Study on total hip arthroplasty and osteoporosis – see PubMed.“)

Who Performs This Surgery? (Specialists and Team Involved)

Orthopedic surgeons specializing in joint replacements typically perform total hip replacement surgeries, supported by a team of anesthesiologists, nurses, and physical therapists.

When to See a Specialist?

If hip pain is interfering with your daily life and conservative treatments have failed to provide relief, it may be time to consult an orthopedic surgeon for a thorough evaluation.

When to Go to the Emergency Room?

Seek emergency care if you experience severe pain, swelling, or signs of infection, such as redness or fever, after surgery.

What Recovery Really Looks Like?

Most patients can begin walking with assistance the day after surgery. Full recovery can take up to 6 months, with significant improvements in the first few months.

What Happens If You Delay Surgery?

Delaying surgery may lead to further joint damage, increased pain, and complications that could make the procedure more difficult.

How to Prevent Recurrence or Failure?

Maintain a healthy weight, avoid high-impact activities, and follow your surgeon’s recommendations to ensure the longevity of the implant.

Nutrition and Bone or Joint Health

Adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D is essential for bone health during the recovery period.

Activity and Lifestyle Modifications

Engage in low-impact activities and avoid excessive weight-bearing or high-impact sports to preserve the health of your new hip.