Infection: A small number of people can develop an infection with a total hip replacement. This complication can require further surgery to remove the prosthetic components and clean out the joint along with a course of antibiotics lasting six to eight weeks.
Deep venous thrombosis (DVT): A blood clot (thrombosis) may form in veins of patient’s pelvis, thigh, or leg. After surgery, patient will receive blood-thinning medication, such as aspirin or warfarin (Coumadin), to prevent clots from forming.
Pulmonary embolism(PE): An embolism occurs when a clot breaks free and travels to patient’s lungs. An embolism potentially can cause serious respiratory difficulty. The risk of having one is less than 1%.
Bleeding: As with any surgery patient will experience bleeding both during and after the procedure. Patient often will need a blood transfusion.
Nerve injury: Patient has a small risk of injuring the nerves that allow sensation and movement of the leg. Often this problem, if it occurs, will go away over time.
Anesthesia: Any type of anesthesia has risks associated with it. Discuss these with consultant doctor.
Fracture: Other bones may be broken during surgery. These breaks may affect patient’s rehabilitation and require a longer hospital stay.
Dislocation: Patient’s new hip will not move as well as a normal joint and thus can be dislocated more easily. Patients must be taken cautious not to sit too low or to cross legs.
