Total Hip Replacement
Total Hip Replacement Surgeon in Colorado Springs
Joint conditions such as arthritis may cause damage to the cartilage and bones leading to chronic pain in the hip and/or disability. The condition can be treated by replacing the damaged parts with artificial components. Eric K. Jepson, DO provides expert diagnosis and hip replacement surgery in Colorado Springs. Eric K. Jepson, DO also provides highly specialized care during and after the surgery. Contact Dr. Jepson's office for an appointment today!
What is Total Hip Replacement?
Total hip replacement is a surgical procedure in which the damaged cartilage and bone are removed from the hip joint and replaced with artificial components. The main indication for total hip replacement is arthritis.
Arthritis is the inflammation of joints, which results in pain, swelling, stiffness and limited movement. Hip arthritis is a common cause of chronic hip pain and disability.
What are the Symptoms of Arthritis?
The most common symptom of hip arthritis is joint pain and stiffness, resulting in a limited range of motion. Vigorous activity can increase pain and stiffness, which may cause limping while walking.
How is Arthritis Diagnosed?
Diagnosis is made by evaluating your medical history, performing a physical examination and taking X-rays of the arthritic joint.
What is the Procedure for Total Hip Replacement?
Surgery may be recommended if conservative treatment options such as anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy do not relieve your symptoms.
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia. During the procedure, a surgical cut is made over the hip to expose the hip joint and the femur is dislocated from the acetabulum. The surface of the socket is cleaned and the damaged or arthritic bone removed using a reamer. The acetabular component is inserted into the socket using screws, or occasionally, bone cement. A liner made of plastic, ceramic or metal is placed inside the acetabular component.
The femur or thighbone is then prepared by removing the arthritic bone using special instruments to exactly fit the new metal femoral component. The femoral component is then inserted to the femur either by a press fit or using bone cement. Then the femoral head component made of metal or ceramic is placed on the femoral stem. All the new parts are secured in place using special cement. The muscles and tendons around the new joint are repaired and the incision is closed.
What is the Postoperative Care Involved in Total Hip Replacement?
After undergoing total hip replacement, you must take special care to prevent the new joint from dislocating and ensure proper healing. Some of the common precautions to be taken include:
- Avoid the combined movement of bending your hip and turning your foot inwards
- Keep a pillow between your legs while sleeping for 6 weeks
- Never cross your legs and bend your hips past a right angle (90)
- Avoid sitting on a low chair
- Avoid bending down to pick up things; instead, a grabber can be used to do so
- Use an elevated toilet seat
What are the Risks and Complications of Total Hip Replacement?
As with any major surgical procedure, there are certain potential risks and complications involved with total hip replacement surgery. The possible complications after total hip replacement may include:
- Infection
- Dislocation
- Fracture of the femur or pelvis
- Injury to nerves or blood vessels
- Formation of blood clots in the leg veins
- Leg length inequality
- Wearing out of the hip prosthesis
- Failure to relieve pain
- Scar formation
- Pressure sores
Why Choose Dr. Jepson for Total Hip Replacement in Colorado Springs, CO?
- Board-certified orthopaedic surgeon: Dr. Jepson is certified by the American Osteopathic Board of Orthopaedic Surgery.
- Fellowship training in joint replacement: He completed advanced fellowship training in total joint arthroplasty at the Florida Orthopaedic Institute.
- Specialized hip and knee expertise: His clinical interests include total joint replacement, complex hip and knee problems, arthritis management and revision surgery.
- Patient-centered decision-making: Dr. Jepson explains the available treatment options and encourages patients to ask questions before deciding whether surgery is appropriate.
- Comprehensive joint replacement care: Patients receive coordinated support throughout preparation, surgery and postoperative rehabilitation.
- Local experience: As a Colorado Springs native, Dr. Jepson is committed to helping patients throughout his hometown and surrounding Southern Colorado communities remain active.
Total Hip Replacement FAQs
The procedure is commonly performed to address advanced osteoarthritis. It may also be considered for rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, osteonecrosis and certain hip fractures or structural problems. Dr. Jepson will evaluate the cause and severity of your symptoms to determine whether joint replacement is appropriate.
The duration of surgery varies according to the patient’s anatomy, overall health and the complexity of the condition. Many procedures take approximately one to two hours, although additional time is needed for anesthesia preparation and postoperative monitoring.
Many patients begin standing and walking with assistance on the day of surgery or shortly afterward. A physical therapist may provide instructions on using a walker or other assistive device and performing exercises that support mobility. Recovery timelines differ, so patients should follow their surgical team’s specific recommendations.
Initial recovery commonly takes several weeks, but strength, balance and endurance may continue to improve for several months. The timeline depends on factors such as age, general health, physical condition and adherence to postoperative rehabilitation. Dr. Jepson and the care team will provide individualized recovery instructions.
Potential complications include infection, blood clots, bleeding, dislocation, fracture, nerve or blood vessel injury, leg-length differences and loosening or wear of the implant. Although complications are not common, every operation carries risks. Dr. Jepson will review the potential benefits and risks based on your health and condition.
Schedule a Total Hip Replacement Consultation in Colorado Springs
If ongoing hip pain or stiffness is limiting your independence, schedule an evaluation with Dr. Eric K. Jepson at Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group. He can assess your hip, explain appropriate nonsurgical and surgical options and determine whether total hip replacement may help you regain mobility. Contact CSOG to request an appointment at its North or South Campus and receive specialized hip replacement care in Colorado Springs, CO, and the surrounding Southern Colorado region.
