Total Hip Replacement Surgery: An Introduction to a Life Changing Procedure

Total Hip Replacement(THR) is a common surgical procedure in the medical field of orthopedics. It involves replacement of a diseased hip joint with a prosthetic one (artificial joint).

The main aim of Total hip replacements is to replace the joint allowing for proper and normal functioning. It also helps to provide relief from pain in certain bone conditions. Total Hip Replacement surgery is performed when other forms of treatment such as medical therapy have failed.

In order to understand how Total Hip Replacement is done, there is need to learn the basic anatomy of the hip. The hip joint is formed by the femur (thighbone) and the acetabulum (a structure curved inwards to hold the head of the femur). In between these two structures is cartilage that helps to reduce friction during movement of the joint. Other structures like ligaments and tendons support the joint and allow for control of movement.

 THR is recommended when the normal anatomy and functioning of the joint is impaired.

This usually happens as a result of diseases including osteoarthritis, bone tumors, hip fractures and rheumatoid arthritis. They may cause loss of joint cartilage, fracture (cracking) of the head of femur and other injuries to the joint resulting in bone pain and the inability to walk or sit.

Following this restorative surgery, the patient is able to walk and sit normally again. Hip replacement cost is therefore worth the end result. The diseased bones are removed and replaced by prostheses whose parts are made from metal, ceramic or plastic.  The patient is monitored for several days after which they are discharged to recuperate further at home. Complete recovery and normal functioning is expected in a few weeks with the wound area kept clean and dry and physical therapy performed. Fortunately, implants used in total hip replacements are biocompatible, thus reducing the risks of rejection by the body.

This procedure only requires a short hospital stay for the patient which means less cost is incurred.

The number of people who need THR is quite high and this makes it a costly procedure. The average cost in the United States between $40,000-$65,000. Medical travel offers a better alternative with the availability of less expensive Total Hip Replacement surgery. At International Med Retreat, we offer this procedure in three select world class facilities located in different countries; Costa Rica, Poland and Malaysia. The greatest advantage with our medical travel services is that the patient will receive top quality care at rates of up to 70% less than that in the United States.

This package is completed by the availability of board certified personnel who are well trained and have extensive experience and who speak English fluently.

You can even meet these providers over an arranged Skype call. The patient has ready access to these medical experts as well as certified caregivers who can travel with them providing medical support whenever the patient needs it.

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