For a patient whose hip has been damaged due to arthritis, a fracture, or other conditions, routine activities such as getting in and out of a chair or walking may become challenging and painful.
Patients who do not achieve relief from symptoms with drugs, changes in their routine activities, and the use of walking supports may consider hip replacement surgery. Hip replacement surgery is a safe and predictable procedure, which can relieve pain, improve motion, and help patients get back to enjoying their everyday activities.
Dr. Brian J. Carr at Thomas & Bigler Knee & Shoulder Institute provides total hip replacement to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada and also greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.
Candidates for Surgery
In the case of total hip replacement, there are no weight or age restrictions.
The recommendations for surgery depend on the pain and disability of the patient, not age. A majority of patients who receive total hip replacement surgery are in the age group of 50 to 80 years.
However, orthopedic surgeons assess each patient individually. At all ages, total hip replacement has been undertaken successfully, ranging from the young teen with juvenile arthritis to the elderly patient suffering from degenerative arthritis.
Total Hip Replacement Procedure Steps
Total hip replacement, or total hip arthroplasty, involves the removal of damaged cartilage and bone and its replacement with prosthetic components.
- The compromised femoral head is removed and replaced with a metal stem that is placed into the femur’s hollow center. The surgeon may cement the femoral stem or may “press-fit” into the bone.
- A ceramic or metal ball is placed on the stem’s upper portion. This ball will replace the damaged femoral head that was removed.
- The compromised cartilage surface of the socket, or acetabulum, is removed and replaced with a metal socket. At times, cement or screws are used to hold the socket in position.
- A ceramic, plastic, or metal spacer is placed between the new ball and the socket to create a smooth gliding surface.
Following the surgery, the patient will need to visit their orthopedic surgeon periodically for routine follow-up exams and x-rays, even if the hip replacement seems to be doing alright.
About Dr. Brian J. Carr
Dr. Carr received his medical degree from the Uniformed Services University in Bethesda, MD. He then completed his orthopedic residency with William Beaumont Army Medical Center and Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in El Paso, TX.
Dr. Carr has spent 18 years in the army during and after his medical training. He retired from the army as a Lieutenant Colonel.
In 2010, he deployed to Iraq with the 28th Combat Support Hospital at the time of the transition from Operation Iraqi Freedom to Operation Enduring Freedom. For this assignment, he was recognized for his service in treating injured service members.
He has board certification, and his latest affiliations include Department Chief of Orthopedics at Ft Drum, NY, and most recently, Staff Orthopedic Surgeon in Mesquite, NV. Dr. Carr is a general orthopedic surgeon with advanced training in sports medicine and trauma. He also has a special interest in and considerable training for outpatient primary hip and knee replacement.
Dr. Carr believes that patient satisfaction is the most vital element of any procedure. He believes that patients deserve top-notch care and advanced treatments, as well as respect and compassion.
Dr. Brian J. Carr at Thomas & Bigler Knee & Shoulder Institute receives patients from Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV for total hip replacement.
If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.
Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada.