Traditional Total Hip Replacement
Total hip replacement surgery can relieve pain and improve mobility. Diseases like arthritis attack the cartilage that cushions your joints. When that cartilage has deteriorated substantially, a total hip replacement is often needed to help you resume an independent and active life. Traditional total hip replacement has been performed all over the world for many years and has proven to be a highly successful surgery—easing chronic pain and restoring mobility for improved quality of life.

During total hip replacement surgery, a surgeon removes damaged bone and replaces it with a joint made of high-tech metal, plastics and polymers. Factoring your age, activity level, and the range of hip implants available, your surgeon will select an appropriate hip joint and create a customized care plan for you. 

Anterior Approach Hip Replacement
Holland Hospital is one of the few hospitals in Michigan to offer Anterior Approach Hip Replacement, a muscle-sparing technique for total hip replacement which offers many potential benefits to those who meet the criteria for the procedure.  The Anterior Approach uses the same implants as traditional hip replacement. However, using the Anterior Approach, a smaller incision is used to reach the hip joint from the front of the hip joint (anterior) rather than the side (lateral) or back (posterior). Because the surgeon accesses the joint in this way, the important muscles for hip function are left undisturbed.

 Compared to traditional total hip replacement, the Anterior Approach may offer:

• reduced pain
• faster healing and recovery time
• less restriction of movement during recovery
• greater joint stability after surgery

Each patient is unique, and recovery times vary, but because it is less invasive, the Anterior Approach may allow you to bend at your hips, bear weight and return to normal activities more quickly than with traditional hip replacement.

Pain Management
Pain after hip replacement surgery varies from person to person, but we are committed to keeping you as comfortable as possible. Throughout your stay with us, as well as after you are home, we will help control your discomfort using a variety of techniques and medications. 

Returning Home
While each patient is different, the goal is for you to recover in the comfort of your own home as soon as possible. Improvements in surgical techniques and post-op care mean that after about 3 to 4 days, you will most likely go straight home. However, some patients need to spend a little longer in a rehabilitation center or care facility before they're fully ready. Our Joint Care Coordinator works with your care team to determine what's best for you and what additional support  may be needed for you at home if required.