Total vs Partial Hip Replacement: What’s the Difference?

What Are the Main Differences Between Total and Partial Hip Replacement?

If you have been told you might need hip replacement surgery, it’s natural to have lots of questions. One of the most common being, what’s the difference between a total hip replacement and a partial hip replacement?

Understanding the differences can help you feel more confident about your options and give you a clearer picture of what might be best for your individual situation.

What is a Total Hip Replacement?

A total hip replacement (also called a total hip arthroplasty) is the most common type of hip surgery. In this procedure, both the ball (the head of your femur) and the socket (the part of your pelvis the ball fits into) are replaced with artificial components.

This option is often recommended if:

• You have widespread arthritis in your hip joint.

• Both the ball and socket are significantly worn or damaged.

• Pain and stiffness are affecting your daily activities and quality of life.

The aim of a total hip replacement is to give you long-lasting relief from pain and to restore smooth movement in the hip joint.

What is a Partial Hip Replacement?

A partial hip replacement (sometimes called a hemiarthroplasty) only replaces one part of the joint, usually the ball at the top of the femur. The socket remains as it is, provided it’s still healthy and hasn’t been damaged by arthritis or injury.

Partial hip replacements are more commonly used in cases such as:

• Hip fractures, particularly in older patients.

• Situations where the socket is still in good condition.

Because it’s less invasive than a total hip replacement, recovery may be a little quicker, but it isn’t suitable for everyone. If you have arthritis or significant damage to both parts of the joint, a total replacement is usually the better long-term option.

Which One is Right for Me?

Choosing between a partial or total hip replacement isn’t something you need to decide on your own.

The right option depends on several factors, including the condition of your hip joint, whether your pain is caused by arthritis or an injury, and your age and lifestyle. For example, if arthritis has affected both the ball and socket, a total hip replacement is usually recommended. If the socket is still healthy, a partial hip replacement might be suitable, especially in cases of hip fractures.

Your surgeon will guide you through the decision, taking your personal needs and overall health into account to recommend the best treatment for you.

Recovery and Outcomes

Whether you have a partial or total hip replacement, the goals are the same: to relieve pain, improve mobility, and help you get back to enjoying life.

Most patients see a big improvement in comfort and mobility within just a few weeks. With the right aftercare and physiotherapy, both partial and total hip replacements can deliver excellent long-term results.

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While the terms “partial” and “total” may sound confusing at first, the main difference lies in how much of the joint is replaced. A total hip replacement is more common, especially for arthritis, while a partial replacement is often used after hip fractures where the socket is still healthy.

If you’re living with hip pain or have been told you might need surgery, don’t hesitate to seek expert advice. The right treatment can make all the difference and help you return to the activities you love.

Would you like me to investigate your hip pain? Speak to my friendly and knowledgeable team to start your journey today.

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