Introduction

Hip replacement surgery is a remarkable procedure that has transformed the lives of many people suffering from severe joint pain and limited mobility. While it is generally very successful, like any surgery, it comes with some risks that can affect recovery and future joint health. Taking proactive steps to avoid common complications such as blood clots, infections, hip dislocation, and wear of the artificial joint is vital for a smooth and lasting recovery. This article offers practical advice, drawing on expert insights from Professor Paul Lee and the MSK Doctors team, to help patients protect their new hip and regain their active lifestyle.

Understanding Common Complications After Hip Replacement

Knowing what complications may occur after hip replacement is an important first step in preventing them. Blood clots, infections, hip dislocation, and wear on the artificial joint are among the most frequently encountered problems. Blood clots can block blood vessels and may lead to serious conditions like deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. Infections around the surgical site can slow healing and put the implant at risk. Hip dislocation happens when the ball of the new joint slips out of its socket, causing pain and instability, while wear and tear over time can reduce implant function and possibly require further surgery.

It’s also important to consider patient-specific factors. For example, young women aged 15 to 45 who have hip replacements face a higher risk of needing revision surgery compared to older women, according to recent research (Lopez Garcia et al., 2023). Understanding these individual risks helps healthcare providers tailor care plans for the best outcomes.

How to Prevent Blood Clots: Movement and Medication

Following hip surgery , the risk of blood clots rises because immobility slows blood flow in the legs. To prevent blood clots after hip surgery, it is crucial to start moving safely as soon as possible. Gentle walking and leg exercises encourage circulation. Doctors will often prescribe blood-thinning medication and may recommend wearing special compression stockings or using devices that gently squeeze the legs to keep blood flowing.

Professor Paul Lee and his colleagues ensure that every patient receives a personalised mobility plan suited to their recovery stage. Patients and carers should be alert to warning signs such as swelling , redness or pain in the legs, which could signal a clot needing urgent attention.

Reducing the Risk of Infection With Proper Care

Infection prevention is key to successful healing. Careful hygiene during hospital stays and after going home greatly reduces infection risk following hip replacement. This means taking good care of the wound, watching out for signs such as increased redness, warmth, swelling, or discharge, and seeking medical advice promptly if these occur. The MSK Doctors team follows strict infection control protocols, combining expert medical care with patient vigilance to keep infections at bay.

Protecting Your New Hip and Avoiding Dislocation

Although rare, hip dislocation can be a painful setback after surgery. Preventive hip dislocation precautions involve learning safe ways to move, such as avoiding crossing your legs, bending too far at the hip, or twisting the leg sharply. Using walking aids and following professional advice helps keep the joint stable.

Advances in implant designs further reduce dislocation risk. For example, metal-on-metal hip replacements use larger ball sizes that provide greater joint stability and significantly lower dislocation rates (Amstutz et al., 1998). This combination of careful behaviour and innovative technology helps patients regain confidence in moving around safely.

For younger women planning families, it’s reassuring to note that research has shown “no effect of the mode of delivery on revision rates or complications including fracture , dislocation, or loosening” after hip replacement (Lopez Garcia et al., 2023).

Long-Term Care Tips to Protect Your Artificial Hip

Looking after your artificial hip over the long term is essential to keep it working well and avoid premature wear. Maintaining a healthy weight reduces pressure on the joint, while regular low-impact exercise—such as swimming or cycling—helps keep muscles strong without overloading the prosthesis. Attending all scheduled check-ups allows your healthcare team to monitor joint health and address any concerns early.

Some women with hip replacements may experience joint pain during pregnancy: about 60% will have some pain, but only 4% report severe discomfort, and 21% note persistent, milder pain (Lopez Garcia et al., 2023). Regardless, with modern implants manufactured with great precision and improved fixation methods, the longevity and success of hip replacements continue to improve (Amstutz et al., 1998). Open dialogue with your medical team about any symptoms is always encouraged.

Recognising Warning Signs: When to Seek Help

Being able to spot early warning signs is critical to preventing minor issues from becoming major problems. Seek medical help promptly if you notice:

• Leg swelling , redness, or pain, which may indicate a blood clot
• Increased redness , warmth, swelling, discharge from the wound, or fever suggesting infection
• Sudden severe hip pain, inability to move the leg, or visible deformity indicating possible dislocation
• Persistent hip pain, reduced mobility, or unusual sensations such as clicking that could point to implant wear

Maintaining a strong partnership with experienced specialists like Professor Paul Lee and the MSK Doctors team encourages early intervention and enhances recovery prospects.

Conclusion

Preventing complications after hip replacement involves early mobilisation, vigilant infection control, careful movement to avoid dislocation, and committed long-term joint care. Following tailored advice from experienced surgeons like Professor Paul Lee, supported by the MSK Doctors ’ comprehensive care, can help you achieve the best possible outcomes. Remember, always seek personalised medical advice from a qualified healthcare professional for your specific needs.

References

Lopez Garcia, E. P., Prosser, G. H., & Bucher, T. A. (2023). Pregnancy, hip pain, and total hip replacement. The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery (American), 105(17), 1373-1380. https://doi.org/10.2106/jbjs.22.01017

Amstutz, H. C., Sparling, E. A., Grigoris, P., Campbell, P., & Dorey, F. (1998). Surface replacement: The hip replacement of the future? Hip International, 8(4), 187-207. https://doi.org/10.1177/112070009800800401

Lee, Y‐K., Choi, J. H., Won, H., & Koo, K‐H. (2019). Biomechanics of hip and hip replacement arthroplasty. The Journal of the Korean Orthopaedic Association, 54(5), 377. https://doi.org/10.4055/jkoa.2019.54.5.377