What is a hip TEP?
A hip TEP (total hip replacement) is an artificial hip joint. Unlike other hip prostheses, the hip TEP completely replaces the hip joint:
The hip joint is a ball and socket joint – the joint head of the femur is located in the socket, which is formed by the pelvic bone. Both joint partners are covered with cartilage, which, together with the synovial fluid, ensures frictionless movements.
In the case of a damaged hip joint that no longer functions properly, both joint partners – the condyle and the socket – can be replaced with a total hip replacement (hip TEP).
When do you need a hip TEP?
The most common cause of hip replacement is wear and tear of the hip joint (coxarthrosis). In this case, the cartilage at the joint head and socket progressively wears away, which also leads to changes in the bone surfaces involved. Those affected experience pain, and the hip joint loses its mobility. Possible causes of this osteoarthritis of the hip joint (coxarthrosis) are older age, overloads, malpositions or inflammations.
Implantation of a hip TEP may also be necessary in the case of rheumatic-inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, as well as in the case of bone fractures (fractures) in the hip joint area.
What is done during a hip TEP?
In preparation for hip TEP surgery, an imaging examination of the hip joint is necessary (X-ray, computer tomography, magnetic resonance imaging = MRI). This allows the surgeon to select the appropriate hip prosthesis and to precisely determine the subsequent position of the prosthesis.
Implantation of the hip TEP is performed either under general or partial anesthesia (spinal anesthesia). The surgeon first removes the femoral head of the thigh and prepares the thigh bone and the socket of the pelvic bone for the hip TEP. He then anchors the artificial joint socket in the hip bone and the stem with the joint ball in the thigh bone.
After movement and firm fit of the hip TEP have been checked, the wound is sutured.
What are the risks of hip TEP?
As with any surgery, complications can occur with the implantation of a hip TEP. These include common risks such as infection, blood clot formation, nerve or tissue damage, and high blood loss. In addition, pain from new bone formation (ossification), adhesions and calcification can occur after the new hip joint is implanted. In addition, the hip TEP may “dislocate” (dislocation) or become loose early.
What do I have to pay attention to after a hip TEP?
The hospital stay is followed by rehabilitation (inpatient or outpatient). Patients learn how to behave in everyday life in a way that is as easy on the joints as possible. This includes sports that are easy on the joints. Weight control is also important – existing excess weight should be reduced if possible.
In addition, regular follow-up examinations are scheduled to check the fit and functionality of the hip TEP.
