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Osteoarthritis<\/strong>: The most common cause of hip joint degeneration leading to the need for hip replacement.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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Femoral Neck Fractures<\/strong>: Often result in disruption of blood flow to the femoral head, requiring replacement.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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Rheumatoid Arthritis<\/strong>: Can lead to joint destruction and the need for joint replacement.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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Trauma or Injury<\/strong>: Severe fractures or dislocations of the hip joint may result in arthritis, necessitating hip replacement.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/2025divi.cortho.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/Partial-Hip-Replacement.jpg\")
Partial unipolar hip replacement X -ray.<\/p><\/div>\n
How the Body Part Normally Works? (Relevant Anatomy)<\/h3>\n
The hip joint is a ball-and-socket joint where the femoral head (ball) fits into the acetabulum (socket). The joint is covered by articular cartilage that allows for smooth movement. Arthritis or fractures can damage the cartilage, causing pain and limited motion, which may necessitate surgery.<\/p>\n
What You Might Feel \u2013 Symptoms (Clinical Presentation)<\/h3>\n
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Pain<\/strong>: Often felt in the groin or thigh, worsening with walking, standing, or certain movements.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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Stiffness<\/strong>: Difficulty moving the hip, particularly when trying to bend or rotate the leg.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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Decreased Mobility<\/strong>: Reduced range of motion, making it hard to perform everyday activities like walking, dressing, or sitting.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
How Doctors Find the Problem? (Diagnosis and Imaging)<\/h3>\n
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X-rays<\/strong>: To examine joint space narrowing and signs of arthritis or fractures.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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MRI or CT scan<\/strong>: Used for detailed imaging to assess the severity of joint damage.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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Physical Exam<\/strong>: To assess hip motion and identify areas of pain or stiffness.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Procedure Types or Techniques (Classification)<\/h3>\n
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Partial Hip Replacement<\/strong>: Only the femoral head is replaced, commonly used in patients with femoral neck fractures or isolated femoral head arthritis.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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Total Hip Replacement<\/strong>: Both the femoral head and acetabulum are replaced, typically indicated for widespread arthritis or damage to both components.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Other Problems That Can Feel Similar (Differential Diagnosis)<\/h3>\n
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Trochanteric Bursitis<\/strong>: Inflammation of the bursa near the hip joint.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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Sciatica<\/strong>: Nerve pain radiating from the lower back or hip.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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Labral Tears<\/strong>: Damage to the cartilage of the hip socket that can mimic arthritis symptoms.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Treatment Options<\/h3>\n
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Non-surgical<\/strong>: Pain medications, physical therapy, weight loss, and lifestyle modifications.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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Surgical<\/strong>: Partial hip replacement or total hip replacement depending on the severity of joint damage.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Recovery and What to Expect After Surgery<\/h3>\n
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Immediate Post-op<\/strong>: Patients may be able to bear weight with crutches shortly after surgery. Hospital stay typically lasts 1-2 days for partial replacement, and 2-3 days for total hip replacement.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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Physical Therapy<\/strong>: Begins the day after surgery to regain mobility and strength. Full recovery typically takes 6-12 weeks.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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Long-Term<\/strong>: Most patients return to normal activities within a few months, though high-impact activities may be restricted.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Possible Risks or Side Effects (Complications)<\/h3>\n
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Infection<\/strong>: A risk with any surgery, particularly if proper wound care is not followed.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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Blood Clots<\/strong>: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can occur, which may lead to more serious complications.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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Leg Length Discrepancy<\/strong>: A slight difference in leg length after surgery.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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Dislocation<\/strong>: The hip implant may dislocate if not properly positioned.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Long-Term Outlook (Prognosis)<\/h3>\n
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Partial Hip Replacement<\/strong>: Typically provides significant pain relief and improved function for patients, though the joint may wear out faster over time as the acetabulum remains unaddressed.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
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Total Hip Replacement<\/strong>: Lasts longer (15-20 years or more), with significant pain relief and functional improvement for most patients.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
![\"Intraoperative](\"https:\/\/2025divi.cortho.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/Partial-Hip-Replacement-2.jpg\" "\\"Intraoperative")
Intraoperative image of total hip replacement.<\/p><\/div>\n
Out-of-Pocket Costs<\/h3>\n
Medicare<\/strong><\/p>\n
CPT Code 27125 \u2013 Partial Hip Replacement (Hemiarthroplasty, Replacement of the Femoral Head): $268.14<\/p>\n
Medicare Part B typically covers 80% of the approved cost for this procedure once your annual deductible has been met, leaving you responsible for the remaining 20%. Supplemental Insurance plans such as Medigap, AARP, or Blue Cross Blue Shield generally cover that remaining 20%, minimizing or eliminating out-of-pocket expenses for Medicare-approved surgeries. These plans coordinate with Medicare to fill the coverage gap and reduce financial responsibility.<\/p>\n
If you have Secondary Insurance, such as TRICARE, an Employer-Based Plan, or Veterans Health Administration coverage, it acts as a secondary payer. These plans generally cover any remaining balance, including coinsurance or small deductibles, which typically range from $100 to $300, depending on your plan and provider network.<\/p>\n
Workers\u2019 Compensation<\/strong><\/p>\n
If your partial hip replacement is required due to a work-related injury or degenerative hip disease caused by your job, Workers\u2019 Compensation will cover all associated medical expenses, including surgery, rehabilitation, and follow-up care. You will not have any out-of-pocket expenses, as the employer\u2019s insurance carrier directly covers all approved treatments.<\/p>\n
No-Fault Insurance<\/strong><\/p>\n
If your hip replacement surgery is needed due to an automobile accident, No-Fault Insurance will typically cover the full cost of treatment, including surgery and postoperative care. The only potential out-of-pocket cost may be a small deductible or co-payment depending on your insurance policy.<\/p>\n
Example<\/p>\n
Laura Reed required partial hip replacement (CPT 27125) after a hip fracture. Her estimated Medicare out-of-pocket cost was $268.14. Since Laura had supplemental insurance through AARP Medigap, her remaining balance was fully covered, leaving her with no out-of-pocket expenses for the procedure.<\/p>\n
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)<\/h3>\n
Q. What is the recovery time for partial hip replacement?<\/strong>
A. Recovery for partial hip replacement is typically faster than total hip replacement, with most patients returning to normal activities within 3 months.<\/p>\nQ. Can I drive after hip replacement?<\/strong>
A. Most patients can drive within 4-6 weeks, depending on the leg and recovery process.<\/p>\nQ. How long do hip implants last?<\/strong>
A. Hip implants typically last 15-20 years, though this may vary based on activity level and other factors.<\/p>\nSummary and Takeaway<\/h3>\n
Partial hip replacement is a less common procedure, typically recommended for patients with isolated femoral head arthritis or fractures. It offers a shorter surgery and recovery time compared to total hip replacement, but it may not be suitable for patients with widespread arthritis or joint degeneration. Total hip replacement remains the gold standard for comprehensive treatment of hip arthritis.<\/p>\n
Clinical Insight & Recent Findings<\/h3>\n
A recent study evaluated the effect of local vancomycin powder (VP) application in reducing surgical site infections (SSIs) after partial hip replacement in elderly patients with comorbidities.<\/p>\n
The study included 93 patients, comparing a group treated with VP and a group without. While the overall SSI rate was 6.4%, no significant difference was found between the vancomycin-treated group (5.7%) and the non-treated group (6.9%) (p=0.498).<\/p>\n
The study suggests that while vancomycin may help in certain settings, its application in partial hip replacement for elderly patients did not significantly reduce infection rates in this cohort, particularly when ICU follow-up was involved. (\u201cStudy on vancomycin in partial hip replacement \u2013 see PubMed<\/em><\/a>\u201d).<\/p>\n
Who Performs This Surgery? (Specialists and Team Involved)<\/h3>\n
Orthopedic surgeons specializing in joint replacement perform both partial and total hip replacements, assisted by anesthesiologists and surgical teams.<\/p>\n
When to See a Specialist?<\/h3>\n
If you experience persistent hip pain that interferes with daily activities and have not found relief from non-surgical treatments, it may be time to consult an orthopedic surgeon.<\/p>\n
When to Go to the Emergency Room?<\/h3>\n
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe pain, infection signs (fever, redness, swelling), or if the hip dislocates.<\/p>\n
What Recovery Really Looks Like?<\/h3>\n
Recovery involves managing pain, following a physical therapy plan, and gradually returning to daily activities. Most patients regain significant function within 6-12 weeks, with minimal restrictions.<\/p>\n
What Happens If You Delay Surgery?<\/h3>\n
Delaying surgery may lead to further joint deterioration, increased pain, and potentially more complex surgery.<\/p>\n
How to Prevent Recurrence or Failure?<\/h3>\n
Maintain a healthy weight, avoid high-impact activities, and follow the rehabilitation plan to ensure the longevity of the hip implant.<\/p>\n
Nutrition and Bone or Joint Health<\/h3>\n
Ensure adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D to support bone health. Avoid smoking and limit alcohol to aid healing and implant longevity.<\/p>\n
Activity and Lifestyle Modifications<\/h3>\n
Engage in low-impact activities, avoid high-impact exercises, and follow your surgeon\u2019s recommendations for long-term care and mobility.<\/p>\n
For Total Hip Replacement procedure and cost information, please click here<\/a>.<\/p>\n
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Partial Hip Replacement Vs Total Hip Replacement Partial hip replacement is a surgical procedure primarily used to replace only the femoral head (the ball of the hip joint), while the acetabulum (the socket of the hip) remains intact. In contrast, total hip replacement (THR) involves replacing both the femoral head and the acetabulum with prosthetic […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":37,"featured_media":13189,"parent":162,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_seopress_robots_primary_cat":"","_seopress_titles_title":"Partial Hip Vs Total Hip Joint Replacement | Complete Orthopedics","_seopress_titles_desc":"Partial hip replacement involves the prosthetic replacement of the femoral head with a prosthetic stem and head.","_seopress_robots_index":"","_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"
Due to the evolution and the success of a total hip replacement<\/a> in the past decades, partial hip replacement is performed in a very small subset of patients. Partial hip replacement involves the prosthetic replacement of the femoral head with a prosthetic stem and head<\/a>. The socket of the hip joint formed by the acetabulum is not replaced in partial hip replacement.<\/p>
Candidates for Partial Hip Replacement<\/h3>
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