What is AVN of the hip and can it be treated with hip replacement?

Avascular necrosis (AVN) of the hip is loss of blood supply to the femoral head, causing bone collapse. When AVN reaches Ficat stage 3 or 4 with head collapse, total hip replacement is the definitive treatment and delivers excellent outcomes.

✅ NABH Accredited · 10,000+ Surgeries · AVN Specialist

Hip Replacement Surgery in Mohali

Q: What is the difference between total and partial hip replacement?

Total hip replacement (THR) replaces both the ball (femoral head) and the socket (acetabulum). Partial hip replacement (hemiarthroplasty) replaces only the femoral head and is used primarily for hip fractures in elderly patients with a healthy socket.

Q: How long does a hip replacement last?

Modern hip implants are designed to last 20–25 years with appropriate activity. Ceramic-on-ceramic and metal-on-highly cross-linked polyethylene bearings offer excellent wear characteristics.

Q: What is the anterior approach to hip replacement?

The anterior (front) approach avoids cutting major muscles, resulting in faster recovery, less post-operative pain, and earlier return to function compared to the traditional posterior approach. Not all patients are suitable — Dr. Harjoban will advise the best approach for your anatomy.

Q: How long is the hospital stay for hip replacement?

Total hip replacement: 3–5 days. Hemiarthroplasty (partial): 3–4 days. Revision hip replacement: 5–7 days depending on complexity.

Q: When can I walk after hip replacement?

Most patients walk with a walker on Day 1 or Day 2 after surgery. Walking without a walker is typically possible at 6–8 weeks. Hip precautions must be followed for 6–12 weeks.

Q: Is hip replacement covered by insurance?

Yes. Hip replacement is covered under CGHS, ECHS, and 32+ private insurance plans. Gini Hospital offers cashless facility and our team handles all pre-authorisation paperwork.

Total Hip Replacement · Partial Hip · AVN of the Hip

Led by Dr. Harjoban Singh with 10,000+ surgeries, Gini Hospital delivers advanced hip replacement using precision techniques and international-quality implants — restoring pain-free movement and returning patients to full activity. Specialist centre for Avascular Necrosis (AVN) of the hip.

📍 Mohali (SAS Nagar), Punjab · Serving Chandigarh Tri-City

🚨 Severe hip pain, fall, or hip fracture? Call immediately: +91 81463 20100

💬 WhatsApp Us

10,000+

Surgeries

AVN

Specialist

95%+

Satisfaction

20–25 Yrs

Implant Life

24/7

Emergency

NABH

Accredited

Dr. Harjoban Singh, Hip Replacement Surgeon at Gini Hospital Mohali

Dr. Harjoban Singh · Hip Replacement Specialist

Total Hip · Partial Hip · AVN · Revision Surgery

Diagnosed with AVN of the hip?

AVN is time-sensitive. Early stages may be managed without full replacement. Dr. Harjoban will assess your stage and give honest advice on the best path forward.

Honest Guidance

Do You Actually Need Hip Replacement?

Dr. Harjoban believes in honest guidance — surgery is only recommended when it is truly the right option. Here's how to know where you stand.

If any of the following apply, we strongly recommend trying non-surgical treatment first:

✓ Mild arthritis — pain manageable with activity modification
✓ BMI over 35 and not yet optimised
✓ Under 50 years old with preserved joint space
✓ Have not tried structured physiotherapy + injections for at least 6 months
✓ AVN Ficat stage 1 or 2 — core decompression may be sufficient
✓ Pain is not affecting sleep or preventing daily function

Recommended next step:

→ Book an assessment. Dr. Harjoban will advise on physiotherapy, injections, or core decompression — whichever is appropriate.

Hip replacement is strongly recommended when:

▸ Severe osteoarthritis — bone-on-bone contact confirmed on X-ray
▸ AVN Ficat stage 3 or 4 — femoral head collapse
▸ Severe pain affecting sleep, daily activity, or quality of life
▸ 6+ months of conservative treatment has failed to provide relief
▸ Femoral neck fracture requiring hemiarthroplasty
▸ Rheumatoid arthritis with significant joint destruction
▸ Significant deformity affecting gait and leg length
▸ Post-traumatic arthritis following hip fracture or dislocation

Recommended next step:

→ Book a free hip assessment with Dr. Harjoban. Same-day X-ray interpretation and clear recommendation.

Conditions We Treat

Conditions Requiring Hip Replacement

Hip replacement is the definitive solution for end-stage hip disease across a wide range of conditions.

🦴

Osteoarthritis (OA)

The most common cause of hip replacement. Degenerative loss of hip cartilage leads to bone-on-bone contact, groin pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion. End-stage OA is the primary indication for total hip replacement.

🩸

Avascular Necrosis (AVN)

Loss of blood supply to the femoral head causes bone death and eventual collapse of the hip joint. Particularly common in younger patients following steroid use, alcohol, or trauma. Advanced AVN (Ficat 3–4) requires total hip replacement.

🔴

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

Inflammatory arthritis causing progressive destruction of the hip joint. When medical management is insufficient, total hip replacement provides durable pain relief and restored function for RA patients.

⚡

Hip Fractures

Femoral neck fractures — particularly in elderly patients — often require hemiarthroplasty (partial replacement) or total hip replacement rather than fixation, especially when the blood supply to the femoral head is disrupted.

📐

Post-Traumatic Arthritis

Arthritis developing years after hip fractures, dislocations, or childhood hip conditions such as DDH (developmental dysplasia of the hip) or Perthes disease. Requires total hip replacement with careful pre-operative planning.

🔧

Failed Previous Replacement

Loosening, wear, dislocation, infection, or fracture around a previous hip implant. Revision hip replacement is a complex but well-established procedure — Dr. Harjoban has extensive experience in complex revision surgery.

🧬

Dysplasia & Deformity

Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), protrusio acetabuli, and other structural abnormalities causing secondary arthritis. These require specialised implant planning and surgical technique.

Procedure Types

Which Hip Replacement Is Right for You?

Four procedure types — the right choice depends on the diagnosis, extent of disease, age, activity level, and anatomy.

Most Common

Total Hip Replacement (THR)

Full joint replacement — ball and socket

Both the damaged femoral head (ball) and the acetabulum (socket) are replaced with prosthetic components. The gold standard for end-stage hip arthritis and advanced AVN.

▸ Indications: End-stage OA, RA, AVN stage 3–4, post-traumatic arthritis
▸ Components: Acetabular cup, femoral stem, femoral head, bearing surface
▸ Hospital stay: 3–5 days
▸ Recovery: Walk Day 1–2, full recovery 3–6 months

For Fractures

Hemiarthroplasty (Partial Hip)

Femoral head only — socket preserved

Replaces only the femoral head, preserving the natural acetabular socket. Primarily used for femoral neck fractures in elderly patients where the socket is healthy and intact.

▸ Indications: Displaced femoral neck fracture, intracapsular fracture in elderly
▸ Key advantage: Faster surgery, less blood loss, quicker mobilisation
▸ Hospital stay: 3–4 days
▸ Recovery: Walk Day 1, full recovery 6–10 weeks

Bone-Preserving

Hip Resurfacing

Femoral head capped — bone preserved

Resurfaces the femoral head with a metal cap rather than removing it entirely. Suitable for younger, active patients with good bone quality. Preserves more femoral bone for any future revision.

▸ Indications: Younger active patients, good femoral head bone quality, OA without severe deformity
▸ Key advantage: More bone preservation, lower dislocation risk, natural feel
▸ Hospital stay: 3–4 days
▸ Recovery: Walk Day 1–2, full recovery 3–4 months

Complex

Revision Hip Replacement

Re-do surgery for failed implants

Removal and replacement of a failed hip implant. More complex than primary replacement — requires specialised implants, bone grafting, and extensive surgical experience.

▸ Indications: Implant loosening, wear, dislocation, infection, periprosthetic fracture
▸ Dr. Harjoban specialises in complex revision hip surgery
▸ Hospital stay: 5–7 days
▸ Recovery: 6–12 months depending on complexity

Implant Technology

What Makes a Hip Implant Last 20–25 Years?

Hip implant longevity depends on four key factors — and Gini Hospital addresses every one.

⚙️

Bearing Surface

The contact between femoral head and acetabular liner determines wear rate. Options include ceramic-on-ceramic (lowest wear, ideal for younger patients), ceramic-on-polyethylene (durable, versatile), and metal-on-highly cross-linked polyethylene (most common globally).

🔩

Fixation Method

Cementless press-fit fixation allows bone to grow into the implant surface — preferred for younger, active patients with good bone stock. Cemented fixation uses bone cement for immediate stability and is preferred for elderly patients or poor bone quality.

📏

Stem Fit & Offset

Correct femoral offset reconstruction restores hip biomechanics, equalises leg length, and optimises abductor muscle tension — critical for gait, stability, and long-term function. Templating and sizing are done pre-operatively using X-rays.

🧪

Component Positioning

The acetabular cup must be placed within the safe zone of inclination and anteversion to minimise dislocation risk and wear. Precise surgical technique — developed through 10,000+ surgeries — is the most important factor in component positioning.

Implant Brands Available at Gini Hospital

[Gurjot — add your stocked brands here]

All implants used at Gini Hospital meet international quality standards. The appropriate implant, bearing surface, and fixation method for your anatomy, age, activity level, and requirements will be discussed in detail at your pre-operative consultation.

Surgical Approach

Three Ways to Reach the Hip Joint

The surgical approach determines which muscles are moved, recovery speed, and dislocation risk. Dr. Harjoban selects the approach based on your anatomy, diagnosis, and goals.

⬆️

Anterior Approach

Muscle-Sparing

The incision is made at the front of the hip, between natural muscle planes — no muscles are cut. This results in faster recovery, less post-operative pain, and fewer movement restrictions after surgery.

✅ No muscles cut — true muscle-sparing
✅ Faster recovery — earlier return to function
✅ Lower dislocation risk — fewer post-op precautions
✅ Allows fluoroscopic leg-length assessment intraoperatively
→ Not suitable for all patients — depends on body habitus and anatomy

⬇️

Posterior Approach

Most Versatile

The incision is made at the back of the hip. The most widely used approach globally — excellent visualisation, suitable for a wide range of patients, deformities, and revision surgery. Short external rotator muscles are detached then repaired.

✅ Excellent joint visualisation — ideal for complex cases
✅ Suitable for revision surgery, dysplasia, and deformity
✅ Standard approach for most hip fracture hemiarthroplasty
→ Hip precautions required 6–12 weeks — avoid posterior dislocation positions

➡️

Lateral Approach

Direct Lateral

The incision is made on the outer side of the hip. Part of the gluteus medius muscle is detached and repaired. Provides good acetabular exposure with a lower dislocation rate than the posterior approach in experienced hands.

✅ Low dislocation risk
✅ Good acetabular visibility
→ Temporary limp possible while gluteus medius heals
→ Less commonly used than anterior or posterior in primary THR

How Dr. Harjoban chooses your approach

The best approach is not the same for every patient. Dr. Harjoban selects based on your BMI, anatomy, diagnosis (fracture vs arthritis vs AVN), and whether it is a primary or revision procedure. This decision will be explained clearly at your pre-operative consultation.

Pre-Surgery Preparation

How to Prepare for Hip Replacement

Good preparation leads to better outcomes and faster recovery. Here's exactly what to do at each stage.

2–4 Weeks Before

Medical optimisation phase

✅ Complete pre-op assessment: blood tests, ECG, chest X-ray, pelvis and hip X-rays
✅ Diabetic patients: achieve HbA1c below 8.0 — coordinate with Dr. Bhansali's team
✅ Stop smoking — minimum 4 weeks before; significantly reduces infection risk
✅ Dental treatment: complete any dental procedures before surgery
✅ Begin pre-op hip strengthening exercises if possible
✅ Arrange home setup: raised toilet seat, grab rails, firm chair with arms, clear pathways
✅ Purchase a long-handled shoe horn and grabber tool (needed for hip precautions)

1 Week Before

Final preparation

✅ Stop blood thinners (aspirin, warfarin, clopidogrel) as specifically advised by Dr. Harjoban
✅ Stop NSAIDs (ibuprofen, diclofenac) — increases bleeding risk
✅ Confirm insurance pre-authorisation is complete — our team will confirm
✅ Pack hospital bag: loose clothing (wide-leg trousers), toiletries, walker if you own one
✅ Arrange caregiver / family support for the first 4 weeks at home

Day Before Surgery

Pre-admission evening

✅ Admit to hospital as scheduled — pre-op nursing assessment done
✅ Meet anaesthesiologist — spinal or general anaesthesia plan confirmed
✅ Shower with antiseptic wash as instructed by nursing team
✅ Remove nail polish, jewellery, hairpins
✅ Continue regular medications (blood pressure, heart) with a small sip of water unless told otherwise

Day of Surgery

Surgery morning

✅ Fast: nothing to eat or drink for 6–8 hours before surgery time
✅ Wear hospital gown provided by the ward team
✅ IV line placed, pre-op antibiotics given 30 minutes before OT
✅ Blood sugar checked — diabetic patients monitored throughout
✅ OT transfer: you'll be wheeled to the OT — family waits in the designated area

Inside the OT

What Happens During Your Hip Replacement

A step-by-step walkthrough of your surgery — so you know exactly what to expect.

Your Operating Theatre Team:

Dr. Harjoban Singh (Lead Surgeon) Assistant Surgeon Anaesthesiologist Scrub Nurse OT Technician

Duration: Total hip replacement: 1.5–2.5 hours. Hemiarthroplasty: 1–1.5 hours. Revision hip: 2.5–4 hours.

Spinal / General Anaesthesia

Most hip replacements are performed under spinal anaesthesia (awake but feel nothing below the waist) with sedation. General anaesthesia is used when spinal is not suitable. You are positioned on your back (anterior approach) or your side (posterior/lateral approach).

Surgical Incision & Approach

An incision of 10–15 cm is made according to the chosen approach (anterior, posterior, or lateral). Muscles are carefully managed — either split between natural planes (anterior) or detached and repaired (posterior/lateral).

Hip Joint Dislocation

The femoral head is carefully dislocated from the acetabulum. The full extent of joint damage, cartilage loss, and bone deformity is assessed. This confirms the pre-operative templating plan.

Femoral Head Removal

The diseased femoral head and neck are cut and removed. The femoral canal is prepared — reamed and broached — to accept the femoral stem implant at the correct angle.

Acetabular Preparation

The hip socket (acetabulum) is reamed to the correct size and shape. The acetabular cup is press-fitted or cemented in place at the planned angle — inclination and anteversion are critical to avoid dislocation and minimise bearing wear.

Femoral Stem Insertion

The femoral stem is press-fitted or cemented into the prepared femoral canal. Correct stem sizing and offset restore the natural hip biomechanics and leg length equality.

Trial Reduction & Assessment

Trial components are assembled and the hip is reduced. Stability, range of motion, leg length equality, and soft tissue tension are all assessed. Component sizes are adjusted as needed before final implantation.

Final Implant Assembly & Reduction

The final femoral head (ceramic or metal) is fitted to the stem. The bearing liner (ceramic or polyethylene) is locked into the acetabular cup. The hip is reduced — the ball seated firmly in the socket.

Muscle Repair & Wound Closure

For posterior/lateral approach: short external rotators and capsule are repaired. Muscles are re-approximated. The wound is closed in layers. A drain may be placed for 24–48 hours. Compression dressing applied.

Recovery Room

You wake up in the recovery room with monitoring of vitals, pain, and blood sugar (diabetics). Physiotherapist visits same evening for first ankle pumping exercises. You'll be walking with a walker by Day 1 or Day 2.

Recovery Guide

Your Hip Replacement Recovery — Step by Step

Recovery from hip replacement is a structured process. Here's exactly what to expect and when.

In Hospital (Days 1–5)

✅ Day 1: ankle pumping, quad sets, deep breathing exercises in bed
✅ Day 1–2: stand and walk short distance with walker (physio supervised)
✅ Day 2–3: drain removed, wound assessment
✅ Day 2–3: stairs with physiotherapist guidance
✅ Hip precautions taught — positions to avoid at all times
✅ Blood thinners (DVT prophylaxis) started on Day 1
✅ Discharge criteria: walking safely, wound dry, pain controlled, precautions understood

Weeks 1–6 (Home Phase)

▸ Walker use for 4–6 weeks — progress to crutch or stick as strength improves
▸ Daily physiotherapy exercises — strengthening and range of motion
▸ Stitches/staples removed at 10–14 days
▸ OPD follow-up: 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 1 year
▸ Ice pack over hip 15–20 min 3–4× daily to control swelling
▸ Blood thinners continued for 4–6 weeks post-surgery — DVT prevention
▸ Hip precautions strictly maintained throughout this phase

Physiotherapy Programme — 5 Stages

Stage	Timeframe	Goals	Key Exercises
1 — Acute	Day 1–7	Pain control, swelling reduction, safe mobilisation, DVT prevention	Ankle pumps, quad sets, glute sets, standing with walker, short walks
2 — Early Active	Weeks 1–4	Improve hip range of motion within precautions, reduce walker dependence	Hip abduction side-lying, heel slides, seated hip flexion (within limits), gait training
3 — Strengthening	Weeks 4–8	Gluteal and quad strength, eliminate limp, progress to walking stick	Mini squats, step-ups, resistance band abduction, stationary cycling
4 — Functional	Weeks 8–12	Normal gait pattern, stair climbing, return to daily activities	Gait correction, balance training, pool walking, low-resistance cycling
5 — Long-Term	3–6 Months	Full function, return to activity, implant longevity maintenance	Swimming, cycling, walking programme, light weights, yoga (modified)

Return-to-Activity Milestones

Day 1–2

Walk with walker

2 Weeks

Stitches removed

4 Weeks

Left hip: driving

4–6 Weeks

Progress to walking stick

6 Weeks

Return to desk work

6–8 Weeks

Right hip: driving

6–12 Weeks

Hip precautions end

3 Months

Light daily activities

3–6 Months

Swimming, cycling

6–12 Months

Full recovery

🚨 Emergency Warning Signs — Call Immediately

⚠️ Fever above 38.5°C

⚠️ Wound red, swollen, warm, or discharging fluid

⚠️ Calf pain, swelling, or redness (possible DVT)

⚠️ Sudden chest pain or shortness of breath

⚠️ Sudden severe hip pain — possible dislocation

⚠️ Leg going numb, cold, or blue

⚠️ Hip feels like it has "popped out"

Call immediately: +91 81463 20100 (24/7 Emergency)

⚠️ Hip Precautions — Posterior Approach (6–12 Weeks)

These restrictions prevent dislocation while the posterior capsule heals. They are critical — dislocation is the most common early complication of hip replacement via the posterior approach.

🚫 Do NOT bend the hip beyond 90° — no sitting low, no squatting

🚫 Do NOT cross your legs or ankles

🚫 Do NOT rotate your foot inward (internal rotation)

🚫 Do NOT sleep on your operated side without a pillow between knees

🚫 Do NOT use low chairs, sofas, or Indian-style toilets

✅ DO use a raised toilet seat (5–8 cm higher than standard)

✅ DO use a long-handled shoe horn and grabber

✅ DO keep a pillow between your knees when sleeping

Note: Anterior approach patients have fewer precautions. Your physiotherapy team will give you a personalised precaution list based on your specific approach.

Long-Term Care for Your Hip Implant

✅ Avoid high-impact sports (running, jumping, racquet sports)

✅ Maintain healthy weight — every kg reduces implant stress

✅ Annual OPD review with X-ray from Year 5 onwards

✅ Inform all future doctors/dentists that you have a hip implant

✅ Take antibiotics before dental procedures as advised

✅ MRI is generally safe — confirm implant compatibility with your team

✅ Recommended activities: walking, swimming, cycling, golf, doubles tennis

✅ Report any new groin pain, clicking, or limp promptly

AVN Specialist Centre

Avascular Necrosis (AVN) of the Hip

A Silent, Time-Sensitive Condition — The Earlier You Act, The More Options You Have

AVN is one of the most misunderstood hip conditions. Many patients are told to "watch and wait" — but AVN progresses. When the femoral head collapses, your options narrow significantly. Dr. Harjoban is an experienced AVN specialist and will give you an honest, stage-based recommendation.

What is AVN of the Hip?

Blood supply to the femoral head is disrupted. Without blood, bone tissue dies. The femoral head — the ball of your hip joint — begins to collapse under body weight. Pain begins in the groin, often without any obvious cause. If untreated, full collapse of the joint surface is inevitable.

Common Causes

▸ Long-term corticosteroid use
▸ Excessive alcohol consumption
▸ Hip fracture / dislocation trauma
▸ Sickle cell disease
▸ Radiation therapy to the hip
▸ Idiopathic (no identifiable cause)

Warning Symptoms

▸ Groin pain — often worse with weight bearing
▸ Pain at rest and at night (advanced stages)
▸ Gradual reduction in hip range of motion
▸ Limp developing over weeks or months
▸ Often bilateral — affects both hips

How We Diagnose

▸ X-ray: may appear normal in early stages
▸ MRI: the gold standard — detects AVN before X-ray
▸ Ficat staging system guides treatment
▸ Bone scan used in selected cases

Ficat Staging — What Stage Are You?

Stage I

Early — Precollapse

Normal X-ray. MRI shows bone marrow oedema. No structural collapse yet. Best stage for joint-preserving surgery.

→ Core decompression ± bone grafting

Stage II

Sclerosis / Cysts

X-ray shows sclerosis, cysts, or porosis. Femoral head still round. Joint preserved. Conservative surgery still possible.

→ Core decompression / vascularised bone graft

Stage III

Subchondral Collapse

The "crescent sign" — subchondral bone begins to collapse. Femoral head shape compromised. Joint-preserving surgery rarely successful.

→ Total hip replacement recommended

Stage IV

Joint Space Narrowing

Secondary osteoarthritis. Acetabular cartilage involved. Severe pain and functional limitation. Joint replacement is definitive.

→ Total hip replacement

Why Hip Replacement for AVN is Different

▸ AVN patients are often younger (30–55) — requiring implants built to last decades of active use

▸ Cementless press-fit stems preferred — allow bone ingrowth for long-term fixation in younger bone

▸ Ceramic-on-ceramic bearings often chosen — lowest wear rate, ideal for active younger patients

▸ AVN is commonly bilateral — both hips may require replacement, staged 3–6 months apart

▸ Outcomes of total hip replacement for AVN are excellent — comparable to OA in properly selected patients

Dr. Harjoban Singh — Arthroscopic & Joint Replacement Surgeon

"AVN patients come to me frightened — they're often young, they've been on steroids for an unrelated condition, and now they're told they need a hip replacement in their forties. I tell them: yes, this is serious, but the surgery works extremely well, and with the right implant choices for your age and activity level, you can expect a full, active life."

— Dr. Harjoban Singh

Your Specialist

Your Hip Replacement Specialist

Dr. Harjoban Singh

Arthroscopic & Joint Replacement Surgeon

MBBS · MS (Orthopaedics) · Fellowship in Arthroscopy & Sports Medicine

✅ 10,000+ surgeries performed — knee, hip, shoulder, and sports injuries
✅ Specialist experience in total hip replacement, hemiarthroplasty, hip resurfacing, and revision hip surgery
✅ Extensive experience in AVN of the hip — including young patients requiring ceramic-on-ceramic implants
✅ Fellowship-trained in Arthroscopy & Sports Medicine
✅ Languages: Punjabi, Hindi, English

"My goal with every hip replacement is to give my patient a hip that feels natural, functions fully, and lasts as long as possible — whether they are 45 years old with AVN or 75 years old with end-stage arthritis. Every patient gets my honest recommendation, not the easiest one."

Pricing & Insurance

Costs & Insurance

Transparent pricing. Cashless insurance. No hidden costs.

What's included in your hip replacement package:

✅ Pre-op assessment (blood tests, ECG, X-rays)

✅ Surgery (implant, anaesthesia, OT charges)

✅ Hospital stay (room, nursing, meals)

✅ Physiotherapy during hospital stay

✅ Post-op medications (discharge supply)

✅ Walker / mobility aid during recovery

✅ Raised toilet seat (provided on request)

✅ OPD follow-up visits (standard protocol)

Service	Cost
OPD Consultation (Dr. Harjoban Singh)	₹1,500
Total Hip Replacement (THR)	Contact for estimate
Hemiarthroplasty (Partial Hip)	Contact for estimate
Hip Resurfacing	Contact for estimate
Revision Hip Replacement	Contact for estimate
Pre-op Assessment Package	Included in surgery package
Physiotherapy (post-op in hospital)	Included in hospital stay

Insurance Coverage

✅ CGHS and ECHS — fully covered, cashless

✅ 32+ private insurance plans accepted

✅ Cashless facility — no upfront payment for insured patients

✅ Pre-authorisation handled entirely by our team

✅ TPA liaison and documentation managed in-house

✅ Contact us to verify your specific policy coverage

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about hip replacement at Gini Hospital.

Do I really need hip replacement surgery? +

Not necessarily. If you have mild-to-moderate arthritis, are under 50, have a BMI over 35, or have not tried 6 months of physiotherapy and injections, surgery may not be your next step. For AVN patients specifically, early stages (Ficat I–II) may be treated with core decompression to preserve the joint. Dr. Harjoban will assess your X-rays and MRI and give you an honest recommendation.

What is the difference between total and partial hip replacement? +

Total hip replacement (THR) replaces both the ball (femoral head) and the socket (acetabulum) with prosthetic components. Partial hip replacement (hemiarthroplasty) replaces only the femoral head and is used primarily for femoral neck fractures in elderly patients where the acetabular socket is healthy and intact.

How long does a hip replacement last? +

Modern hip implants are designed to last 20–25 years with appropriate activity levels. Ceramic-on-ceramic and metal-on-highly cross-linked polyethylene bearings offer excellent wear characteristics. Implant longevity is strongly influenced by maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding high-impact activities.

What is AVN of the hip and when does it need hip replacement? +

Avascular necrosis (AVN) of the hip is loss of blood supply to the femoral head, causing bone death and eventual collapse. It is staged using the Ficat system. Stage I–II: joint-preserving surgery (core decompression) may be attempted. Stage III–IV: femoral head collapse has occurred — total hip replacement is the definitive and most reliable treatment, with excellent outcomes.

What is the anterior approach to hip replacement? +

The anterior (front) approach accesses the hip joint through natural muscle planes without cutting any major muscles. Benefits include faster recovery, less post-operative pain, and fewer movement restrictions. However, it is not suitable for all patients — body habitus and anatomy are key factors. Dr. Harjoban will advise the best approach for your specific situation.

How long is the hospital stay for hip replacement? +

Total hip replacement: 3–5 days. Hemiarthroplasty: 3–4 days. Hip resurfacing: 3–4 days. Revision hip replacement: 5–7 days depending on complexity.

When can I walk after hip replacement? +

Most patients walk with a walker on Day 1 or Day 2 after surgery. Progressing to a walking stick is typically possible at 4–6 weeks. Walking without any aid is usually achieved by 6–8 weeks. Hip precautions must be followed strictly for 6–12 weeks.

What hip precautions do I need to follow after surgery? +

After a posterior approach: avoid bending the hip beyond 90°, crossing your legs, and rotating your foot inward for 6–12 weeks. Do not sit in low chairs, use Indian-style toilets, or sleep on your operated side without a pillow between your knees. After an anterior approach: fewer restrictions — but avoid extremes of external rotation and hyperextension. Your physiotherapy team will give you a personalised list.

Is hip replacement covered by insurance? +

Yes. Hip replacement is covered under CGHS, ECHS, and 32+ private insurance plans. Gini Hospital offers cashless facility and our team handles all pre-authorisation paperwork. Contact us to verify your specific policy.

Can I have hip replacement if I have diabetes? +

Yes, with appropriate pre-operative optimisation. We require HbA1c below 8.0 for elective hip replacement. Dr. Harjoban coordinates with Dr. Bhansali's endocrinology team to optimise blood sugar control before surgery, significantly reducing infection and wound healing risks.

What implants are used for hip replacement at Gini Hospital? +

We use international-quality hip implants meeting global standards. Bearing surface options include ceramic-on-ceramic (for younger, active patients), ceramic-on-polyethylene, and metal-on-highly cross-linked polyethylene. Specific brands are discussed at the pre-operative consultation based on your anatomy, age, activity level, and requirements. [Gurjot — add your stocked brands here].

When can I drive after hip replacement? +

Left hip replacement: approximately 4–6 weeks. Right hip replacement: 6–8 weeks, when full reaction time, strength, and hip flexibility are restored. You must be off all narcotic pain medication before driving. Always confirm with Dr. Harjoban before resuming driving.