Hip replacement surgery is a common procedure that can significantly relieve hip joint pain and improve mobility. However, as with any surgery, there are potential complications that can arise.
Below are some of the most common issues associated with hip replacements:
Implant Failure: Failure can occur due to wear and tear on the implant, causing it to loosen, become dislocated, or even break inside of the body.
Infection: The surgical site can become infected, causing pain, swelling, and redness. In severe cases, the infection can spread to the bloodstream and cause life-threatening complications.
Metal Hypersensitivity: Certain types of hip replacements have been linked to metal hypersensitivity, which can cause pain, swelling, and in some cases, the death of surrounding tissue.
Metallosis: If you have a metal-on-metal implant, the metal particles may rub off and enter the bloodstream, leading to a painful condition called metallosis. Metallosis can cause serious health consequences and may even lead to death.
Blood Clots: These can form in the legs and travel to the lungs, causing a potentially life-threatening condition called pulmonary embolism. An embolism can cut off blood flow and may be fatal without prompt medical attention.
Nerve Damage: During surgery, you can suffer nerve damage, leading to temporary numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg or foot. In some cases, the nerve damage can be permanent.