Here you will find concise answers to the most frequently asked questions about your hip operation Contact us personally – we are here for you!
Is the prosthesis cemented?
Both cemented and cementless prostheses are available for initial implantation. According to current knowledge, there is no significant difference in the longevity of the prosthesis. We make the decision based on your bone quality. We use cementless total prostheses in around 95% of cases, as we prefer the most biological connection possible between the prosthesis and the bone.
Will my legs be the same length after the operation?
The wear and tear of the hip and stiffness often result in legs of different lengths in real and functional terms. Sometimes without you even realizing it. Our aim is to restore the old leg length or to compensate for any differences.
To do this, we use computer navigation or robot technology, which allows the correction to be made with an accuracy of just a few millimetres. In rare cases, it is not possible to adjust the leg length to the same side, for example, due to the soft tissue, so that a difference remains even after the operation. If at all possible, we will inform you of this before the operation. A disturbing difference in leg length can be compensated for later with a shoe adjustment or an insole.
How long do I have to use the walking sticks?
The use of walking sticks depends on the stability of your gait and your muscular situation. Muscular weakness is often still present after the operation, also due to pain. The walking sticks help you to stabilize your gait. You will often be able to walk short distances without
walking sticks after just a few days. However, you should definitely avoid limping, which can lead to incorrect weight bearing. In the first 14 days, the use of walking sticks is also advisable to prevent falls. After that, you can gradually stop using walking sticks.
When will I be allowed to drive again?
You can drive as soon as you can put full weight on your leg and move it without significant pain. This is usually possible after 3-5 weeks if you have a hip prosthesis. If your left leg has been operated on and you have an implant, you can drive again immediately after leaving hospital.
How long will I be unable to work?
The period of incapacity to work depends on your occupation. For office jobs, it is 3-6 weeks due to the muscle-sparing surgical technique, and 6-8 weeks for standing jobs. For physically demanding jobs, it is sometimes only possible to return to work after 3-4 months.
Are there allergies to hip prostheses?
The prostheses we use are made of titanium. No titanium allergies are known to date.
Can I do sports with a hip prosthesis?
In principle, you can do practically any sport again with a hip prosthesis.
Most people regain their activity level with a prosthesis without any restrictions. Sports with high impact loads, such as jogging or contact sports, should be avoided as this can lead to premature loosening of the prosthesis. In the event of an accident or fall, bone fractures can occur around the prosthesis, which may require the prosthesis to be replaced. Accordingly, no unnecessary risks should be taken during sport.
How long will the prosthesis last?
According to the current data available in various prosthesis registers, we assume
that the prosthesis will last an average of 20 to 30 years or longer. Of course, this depends on various factors. Young and very active patients must expect a slightly higher risk of loosening of either the stem or cup component.
Do I have to take antibiotics before dental treatment?
Theoretically, there is a lifelong risk of infection with a prosthesis if bacteria enter the bloodstream, such as during dental surgery. In reality, this is an extremely rare complication that also depends on how long ago you had the procedure. The official recommendation is not to undergo any dental treatment (including dental hygiene) for the first 3 months after prosthesis implantation. After this time, however, special antibiotic prophylaxis is no longer necessary.
If your concerns have not been fully clarified here or if you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us – we will be happy to assist you.