a What is the effect of patient age on longevity of an impla

a. What is the effect of patient age on longevity of an implanted total hip replacement?

b What is the effect of patient weight?

c. Are there any other “lifestyle factors” that you believe would impact the longevity of the total hip replacement?

Solution

Please find the answers:

Part a: Hip replacement is performed in patients with damaged or non-functional pelvic girdle. When a pateint with total hip replacement ages, the muscular strength of his pelvic muscles also decreases. This causes loss of binding of replaced hip with the pelvic muscles. Although the replaced hip is highly resistant to wear and tear, there occur secondary damages due to physical deterioration of muscles. Thus, the longevity of the implant also decreases.

Part b: As the weight of the patient increases, the pressure on the implanted hip also increases. This causes strain on the pelvic muscles. This can lead to loosening of the inter-ligament and tendon joints in the pelvic girdle and utlimately promote decline in longevity of the implant. This is why a patient with total hip replacement is always adviced to control his/her weight.

Part c: Clinical data from various studies have shown that besides the above mentioned points, some life-style factors which can impact the longevity of such an implant include poor body posture, improper walkin/running style, improper diet, putting sustained strain on either of the legs, improper exercise habits and alcohol/sedative consumption, smoking etc.