Hip pain can disrupt many parts of life, from walking your dog to climbing stairs or simply sitting at your desk. If you have tried physical therapy or medications and still struggle with pain, you may wonder about your next steps. Two common surgical procedures to address hip pain are hip arthroscopy and total hip replacement. Each procedure offers distinct benefits, but they are different in scope, recovery, and suitability.
Knowing the differences between hip arthroscopy and total hip replacement can help you make the best decision.
What is Hip Arthroscopy?
Hip arthroscopy is a type of surgery that uses small incisions. Your surgeon will use a tiny camera to look inside and fix problems in the hip joint. The camera shows images on a screen, helping the surgeon see clearly without making a big cut. Special tools are used to fix or remove damaged tissue, smooth rough areas, or shave extra bone.
This procedure is best for people with hip problems like small tears, mild bone issues, or minor cartilage damage. It keeps most of the hip joint intact and allows for quicker recovery compared to larger surgeries.
When is Hip Arthroscopy Appropriate?
Hip arthroscopy is best suited for younger, more active patients with specific injuries. Common reasons for this procedure include:
- Labral tears (damage to the ring of cartilage around the hip socket)
- Femoroacetabular impingement (abnormal bone growth, causing pain and stiffness)
- Loose bodies or fragments inside the joint
- Early-stage cartilage damage
Hip arthroscopy can delay or even prevent the need for joint replacement if caught early. It allows your surgeon to address problems while preserving your joint’s natural structure.
Most people return home the same day and resume daily activities within several weeks.
Physical therapy is an important part of recovery. It will help you regain strength, balance, and flexibility.
Your surgeon may recommend hip arthroscopy if:
- Your pain is isolated
- You are under 50
- You wish to remain active
- Your joint space is still healthy
However, this surgery does not help everyone. Patients with advanced arthritis or lost joint space may not obtain lasting relief from arthroscopy. Your symptoms might return weeks or months after surgery if the underlying joint disease continues to progress.
What is Total Hip Replacement?
Total hip replacement is a big surgery. The surgeon takes out the damaged parts of the hip joint and replaces them with artificial parts made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. This surgery is for serious joint damage, often caused by severe arthritis or major injuries.
Total hip replacement is not a minor procedure. You will stay in the hospital for a few days and need weeks or months to fully recover. However, it can greatly reduce pain and improve movement for people with advanced hip problems. The artificial joint can last many years and improve life when other treatments do not work.
When is Total Hip Replacement the Better Option?
Total hip replacement is ideal for patients with severe joint damage that limits daily life. This includes:
- Advanced or “bone-on-bone” osteoarthritis, often with joint deformity
- Rheumatoid arthritis, which causes destruction of hip cartilage and bone
- Serious injuries such as fractures that cannot be repaired another way
- Failed previous surgeries that did not relieve symptoms
Do you need pain relief to sleep, have trouble walking short distances, or notice that medications no longer help? Total hip replacement might be the best option. Unlike arthroscopy, this surgery addresses the whole joint by removing most or all of the damaged bone and cartilage. For those who qualify, hip replacement can take away pain, improve movement, and give long-lasting results for 15 years or more.
It is important to note that a hip replacement is a larger operation. Recovery usually takes several months. You will need help at home, followed by diligent physical therapy to gain full benefit from the new joint.
When to Consider Each Procedure
Choosing between hip arthroscopy and total hip replacement depends on several factors:
- Severity of Joint Damage: Early-stage injuries are best for arthroscopy. Extensive damage requires replacement.
- Age and Activity Level: Younger, more active people may benefit from arthroscopy first.
- Overall Health: Joint replacement is a bigger operation with more risks. Your general health matters when making a decision on which procedure to go with.
- Previous Treatments: If conservative care (like medication or injections) doesn’t work for you, surgery may be the next step.
- Your Goals: Think about your lifestyle, work, and future plans as you decide with your doctor.
Why Choose the Joint Replacement Institute in Naples, FL?
Hip surgery is a big decision, whether you consider arthroscopy or a total replacement. Experience and specialized care can make all the difference in your results. The Joint Replacement Institute in Naples, FL, offers a comprehensive evaluation. We also conduct advanced imaging and provide a full range of surgical options.
Our orthopedic surgeons will take the time to understand your pain, activity goals, and history. We recommend only the procedure suited to your specific needs. Each step, from diagnosis to rehabilitation, receives personal attention.
Hip Arthroscopy vs. Total Hip Replacement in Naples, FL
Both hip arthroscopy and total hip replacement are excellent options in the right circumstances. Arthroscopy works best for early-stage problems in active people. Meanwhile, joint replacement is a proven solution for severe hip damage. Surgery decisions always depend on individual factors like age, severity of damage, and life goals.
Do you suffer from hip pain and want to know what to choose between hip arthroscopy and total hip replacement? Call us at (239) 261-2663 or submit our appointment request form.
The best orthopedic surgeons near you look forward to serving you!
Sources:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/22195-hip-arthroscopy
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/17102-hip-replacement
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/hip-replacement/about/pac-20385042
