Hip replacement surgery is one of the most advanced and successful procedures in modern orthopedics. It is designed to relieve chronic hip pain, restore mobility, and improve quality of life in patients suffering from arthritis, injury, or joint degeneration.
One of the first concerns patients have before planning surgery is:
“How long does hip replacement surgery take?”
Understanding the surgical duration, operating room experience, and recovery timeline helps patients feel more confident and prepared.
What Is Hip Replacement Surgery?
Hip replacement, also known as hip arthroplasty, is a procedure in which a damaged hip joint is replaced with an artificial implant made of metal, ceramic, or high-grade plastic.
The hip is a ball-and-socket joint:
-
Ball → Femoral head (top of thigh bone)
-
Socket → Acetabulum (pelvic bone)
When cartilage wears out due to arthritis or trauma, bones rub together causing pain and stiffness. Hip replacement restores smooth joint movement.
How Long Does Hip Replacement Surgery Take?
Average Surgery Duration
-
Actual surgery time: 1.5 to 2 hours
-
Total OT time (including prep & anesthesia): 2 to 4 hours
Surgery Day Timeline
So while the operation itself takes about 2 hours, patients usually spend several hours in the operating theatre due to anesthesia, positioning, and post-operative monitoring.
Factors That Affect Surgery Duration
Every patient and joint condition is different. Surgery time may vary depending on:
1. Type of Hip Replacement
-
Total Hip Replacement (THR): Full joint replacement (standard duration)
-
Partial Hip Replacement: Only ball portion replaced (shorter time)
-
Revision Surgery: Longer due to removal of old implant
2. Surgical Technique
-
Traditional (Open) Surgery: Larger incision, slightly longer time
-
Minimally Invasive / Anterior Approach: Smaller incision, faster recovery in selected patients
-
Robotic-Assisted Surgery: High precision, time varies by case complexity
3. Patient-Related Factors
-
Age
-
Body weight
-
Bone quality
-
Deformity severity
-
Comorbidities (diabetes, heart disease, hypertension)
These factors influence anesthesia safety and surgical complexity.
4. Surgeon’s Experience
An experienced joint replacement specialist ensures:
-
Better surgical planning
-
Faster implant positioning
-
Reduced complications
-
Optimal surgical time
Surgical Approaches & Time Influence
Posterior Approach (Most Common)
-
Excellent joint visibility
-
Slightly longer exposure time
Anterior Approach (Muscle-Sparing)
-
Performed from the front
-
Less muscle damage
-
Faster early recovery
Lateral Approach
-
Used in selected anatomical conditions
Choice depends on patient anatomy and surgeon preference.
What Happens Before, During & After Surgery?
Before Surgery
-
Pre-anesthesia evaluation
-
Vitals monitoring
-
Spinal or general anesthesia
-
Surgical site preparation
During Surgery
-
Damaged cartilage and bone removed
-
Femoral stem inserted
-
Artificial ball & socket implanted
-
Joint alignment checked
Precision placement ensures implant longevity.
After Surgery
-
Shifted to recovery room (PACU)
-
Vitals monitored until anesthesia wears off
-
Pain control initiated
-
Moved to ward within hours
Hospital Stay After Hip Replacement
-
Typical stay: 1–3 days
-
Some patients eligible for same-day discharge
-
Early mobilization begins within 24 hours
Physiotherapy starts immediately to prevent stiffness and blood clots.
Hip Replacement Recovery Timeline
Full healing varies by age, fitness, and rehab compliance.
Tips to Prepare for Hip Replacement Surgery
-
Follow pre-surgery medical instructions
-
Control diabetes/BP if present
-
Arrange home assistance
-
Modify home setup (avoid stairs/bending)
-
Commit to physiotherapy program
Preparation improves surgical outcomes and speeds recovery.
Choosing the Right Orthopedic Surgeon
Surgery duration matters — but surgical precision matters more.
An experienced joint replacement surgeon ensures:
-
Accurate implant placement
-
Reduced complications
-
Faster recovery
-
Long-term joint success
Conclusion
Hip replacement surgery typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours, with total operating room time around 3 to 4 hours. While the procedure is relatively short, its impact on pain relief and mobility can last decades.
With proper planning, expert surgical care, and structured rehabilitation, patients can return to an active, pain-free life
FAQs
Q1. How long does hip replacement surgery take?
The surgery usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on complexity.
Q2. How long am I in the operating room?
Including preparation and recovery, 3–4 hours.
Q3. Is hip replacement a major surgery?
Yes, but it is highly safe and commonly performed worldwide.
Q4. How many days is hospital stay required?
Most patients stay 1–3 days; some go home same day.
Q5. When can I walk after surgery?
Walking with support usually begins within 24 hours.
