Hip surgery changes steadily rather than suddenly. Implant materials, surgical approaches, anaesthetic technique and rehabilitation have all moved on considerably over the past two decades, and the advice Mr Chauhan gives is based on the current evidence rather than on habit. This page explains the areas he follows most closely and how they affect the recommendations you will hear in clinic.
Implant materials and bearing surfaces
Modern titanium stems with ceramic or highly cross-linked polyethylene bearings have substantially improved the expected lifespan of a hip replacement compared with the implants used a generation ago. National joint registries now hold data on hundreds of thousands of hips, which makes it possible to compare how particular implant combinations perform over many years. Mr Chauhan uses this registry evidence when choosing an implant for your age, bone quality and activity level.
Joint preservation before replacement
There is growing interest in treating hip pain earlier, before the joint is worn beyond repair. Better imaging has made it easier to identify impingement and labral problems in younger, active patients, and to distinguish pain coming from the joint itself from pain referred from the spine. Where the joint surface is still reasonable, joint-preserving options are worth discussing.
Injection therapies for hip osteoarthritis
Guided injection remains a useful tool both for treating pain and for confirming its source. Evidence for different injectable agents varies considerably, so Mr Chauhan will explain what is well supported for your situation and what is still uncertain. See the hip joint injection page for what the procedure involves.
Recovery and rehabilitation
Some of the biggest gains in recent years have come from changes around the operation rather than the operation itself: earlier mobilisation, better pain control, shorter hospital stays and structured physiotherapy. These are reflected in the guidance on the hip surgery patient information page.
Discuss the evidence for your own hip
If you would like to understand the reasoning behind a particular recommendation, ask. Mr Chauhan is happy to share the sources behind his advice. Contact his PA to arrange a consultation or read more about total hip replacement.