www.nhgi.co.uk, Northern Hip & Groin Institute, Joint Replacement Knee Hip, Arthroscopy, Computer Assisted, Sports, Schilders, Kluge, Leeds, Bradford, Yorkshire

Further serious complications and risks of hip resurfacing

Blood-thinning medications after surgery, compression devices, and exercise to increase blood flow through the veins are important measures to reduce the risk of thrombosis (DVT). Bending of the hip more than 90 degrees and crossing the legs should be avoided for about 3 months to avoid dislocation of the hip.

The surgeon takes steps to avoid change in leg length. However, the implant may make the leg feel longer or shorter. Often this is caused by weakness in the muscles. In this case, strengthening exercises help to resolve the issue. Some patients have to wear braces to restrict movement after surgery. Obesity pre-disposes patients to an increased complication rate. A small number of people have serious problems such as a heart attack, a stroke, or a bad chest infection soon after the operation. It is a good idea to stop smoking before an operation because smoking makes all these problems more likely. Very rare complications are: damage to a main leg artery, to major nerves, muscle or tendon close to the hip.