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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How Strong Are The Artificial Hips And Do They Wear Out Quickly?

Hi,

I am a 50yo male, 6'3", weigh 300lbs, have played lots of sport(basketball,tennis,golf,skiing) all my life. One of my hips seems to have taken the toll of me being heavy and active and might need to be replaced. How strong are the artificial hips? I know I need to lose weight for a number of reasons, but am concerned if the artificial hip "wears out" too quickly. How many times can they be replaced? Let's say I get down to 220lbs - still a worry? How much sport will I be able to play in the future?
Sat, 29 Mar 2014
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Orthopaedic Surgeon,  's  Response
You would still be considered young to have a hip replacement and becuase of your age and activity levels we would expect an artificial hip to wear out in around 10 years or so. You can have revision hip replacement but each time you have one of these it does not work as well or last as long as the preceding one. The only reason to proceed with a hip replacement is if you are in significant pain and discomfort and if you find these symptoms disabling. Loosing weight will definitely be of benefit to your hip and your general health. Most people cannot run after a hip replacement and I would not reccomend competative contact or twisting sports.
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How Strong Are The Artificial Hips And Do They Wear Out Quickly?

You would still be considered young to have a hip replacement and becuase of your age and activity levels we would expect an artificial hip to wear out in around 10 years or so. You can have revision hip replacement but each time you have one of these it does not work as well or last as long as the preceding one. The only reason to proceed with a hip replacement is if you are in significant pain and discomfort and if you find these symptoms disabling. Loosing weight will definitely be of benefit to your hip and your general health. Most people cannot run after a hip replacement and I would not reccomend competative contact or twisting sports.