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Can Both The Hips Be Replaced At The Same Time?

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Posted on Fri, 16 Jan 2015
Question: What are the implication of having approximately 1/2 of the ball joint connect to the leg's femur show up on MRI study as "necrotic". Orthopedic Doctors have varied "from get hip replaced ASAP", to "get hip replaced as soon as you can work it into your schedule but don't put it off", to "see if you can live with the pain and get it replaced when it is too uncomfortable and drugs don't work".

My wife a BSN teaching nurse is in the don't put it off opinion... she says I walking around on a unsafe joint that could begin to disintegrate unpredictably. In that I/ we travel a fair amount I could easily find myself in a locale without the best ortho surgeons. Therefore, I am concerned putting it off.

Also, at another level is the addition disease parameter that might reveal themselves hidden within the necrosis?
I forgot to mention. My other hip joint is badly hit by arthritis. All Dr. consulted agree that it will need replacement; however, after the one with the necrosis.

Are hips ever replace at the same time? If so is it recommended and does it shorten rehabilitation time?


Thank you,
XXXX
doctor
Answered by Dr. Mukesh Chugh (2 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Both hips can be replaced at the same time

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for posting.

I can understand your dilemma with so many different opinions. Once the hip is necrosed, the chances of it getting improved on its own, in terms of pain and range of movement, are nil. The same can be said for the arthritis.

The best way to have painless hip with near normal range of movement is by getting them replaced. Although the hip replacement can be done at any stage with reasonably good results, the earlier you do better are the results, because it takes less time, bones are strong enough to receive the implant and rehabilitation is prompt. This saves you from the side effects of pain killer.

Depending upon the surgeon experience, both hips can be replaced in a single sitting and it is recommended as it saves time, money and has better rehabilitation.

Hope this helps in making a decision and I shall be glad to answer any further query.

Take care
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Mukesh Chugh

Orthopaedic Surgeon, Joint Replacement

Practicing since :1997

Answered : 1619 Questions

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Can Both The Hips Be Replaced At The Same Time?

Brief Answer: Both hips can be replaced at the same time Detailed Answer: Hello, Thanks for posting. I can understand your dilemma with so many different opinions. Once the hip is necrosed, the chances of it getting improved on its own, in terms of pain and range of movement, are nil. The same can be said for the arthritis. The best way to have painless hip with near normal range of movement is by getting them replaced. Although the hip replacement can be done at any stage with reasonably good results, the earlier you do better are the results, because it takes less time, bones are strong enough to receive the implant and rehabilitation is prompt. This saves you from the side effects of pain killer. Depending upon the surgeon experience, both hips can be replaced in a single sitting and it is recommended as it saves time, money and has better rehabilitation. Hope this helps in making a decision and I shall be glad to answer any further query. Take care