Trauma experts say that certain complications can occur after hip replacement surgery, as with any other type of surgery. The complication rate in this case is low.
More serious complications, such as joint infection, occur in less than 2% of cases. Chronic diseases can increase the chances of complications.
Some of the complications that can arise after hip replacement surgery include the following:
Infection
A superficial wound infection or a deep infection around the prosthesis may occur. Minor infections are treated with antibiotics while a deep infection may require surgery and removal of the prosthesis.
Blood clots
The most common complication of hip replacement surgery is the formation of blood clots in the veins of the leg or pelvis. It can be dangerous if the clots break loose and travel to the lungs.
Leg length inequality
After this type of surgery, some patients feel that one leg is longer than the other. In some cases it is to make this inequality to maximize the stability and biomedical of the hip.
Dislocation
Dislocation occurs when the head of the hip pops out of the socket. It usually occurs during the first few months after surgery, as the tissues are still healing. This complication is very rare.
Implant loosening and wear
Loosening and wear of the implant may occur years after the surgery has been performed. This is mainly due to the activities performed on a daily basis. If this causes pain, a second surgery, known as revision surgery, may have to be performed.
In addition to these complications already named, blood vessel and nerve injury, bleeding, fracture and stiffness may occur.