Common Questions About Hip Replacement Surgery

Some implants have lasted 15 to 20 years. But just like your natural joint, your new parts can wear out over time. How long yours last could depend on:

• Your age
• Your weight
• Your activity level
• How your implant was made
• What materials were used during your surgery

For the most success after surgery, you will need to keep up with physical therapy and exercise and follow all of your surgeon’s instructions. Physical therapy may start the same day as your surgery and last up to 4 to 6 months after your surgery. You will need to exercise. This helps your blood flow and makes your muscles stronger. This will help you move around better. You will learn exercises in physical therapy.

Hip replacement is a major surgery. Although it works very well in most cases, some patients may have problems. Some complications could include:

• Infection
• Blood clots
• Broken implant
• Implant not positioned just right
• Implant wears out faster than anticipated

To lower your risks for problems during surgery, your surgeon may ask you to get some tests ahead of time. You can likely get these from your primary care doctor. You also may need to have any dental problems fixed before surgery. If needed, you should get your home ready so that you have a clear place to walk and can avoid falling.

Exactech hip systems have not been tested for safety and compatibility in the MRI environment. Since all MRI systems are different, we can’t make any claims regarding the safety of our implants with any specific system. If you need an MRI at any point after a joint replacement surgery, it’s best to consult with the imaging center and your orthopaedic surgeon.

Exactech uses cobalt chrome, titanium and stainless steel in many of its metal implant and surgical instrument components. Some of these components contain trace amounts of nickel. If you think you have a nickel or any other kind of metal sensitivity, discuss your options for joint surgery with your primary care physician and your surgeon so they can help you determine the best next steps.

Exactech’s surgeon locator helps you find orthopedic surgeons in your area. The locator provides surgeon contact information and details about shoulder, ankle, hip and knee doctors near you. Search the surgeon locator by choosing the doctor’s specialty and your Zip Code, City or State.