Medically reviewed by: Dr. Vijay Kumar Sohanlal, MBBS, MS (Orthopaedics), Orthopaedic and Joint Replacement Surgeon, Founder and Owner, MAHI Multispecialty Hospital, Kilpauk, Chennai
Last medically reviewed: October 2026
Hip pain can affect walking, sleeping, climbing stairs and carrying out everyday activities. When the pain persists, understanding its cause and the available treatment options can help patients make informed decisions with their orthopaedic doctor.
This guide explains total hip replacement doctor in Kilpauk, when it may be considered, how the procedure is performed, what recovery involves and which risks patients should understand.
What is Total Hip Replacement?
Total hip replacement, also known as total hip arthroplasty (THA), is an operation in which the damaged parts of the hip joint are replaced with artificial components called prostheses.
The hip is a ball-and-socket joint. The rounded head of the thighbone fits into a socket in the pelvis. Smooth cartilage covers the joint surfaces and allows movement. When the cartilage or underlying bone becomes damaged, movement may become painful and restricted.
During total hip replacement, the surgeon replaces the femoral head and prepares the socket to receive artificial components. The materials used may include metal, ceramic and specialised medical-grade plastics. The choice of implant depends on the patient’s anatomy, bone quality, age, activity level and other clinical considerations.
The purpose of surgery is to reduce pain and improve joint function when the condition warrants replacement. The degree of improvement varies between individuals.
When May Hip Replacement Be Considered?
Hip replacement may be considered for people whose hip joint damage causes persistent pain and limits daily activities. The decision depends on symptoms, examination findings, imaging and the response to appropriate non-surgical treatment.
Conditions that may lead to consideration of total hip replacement include:
- Osteoarthritis: Wear and damage of the joint cartilage that can cause pain, stiffness and reduced movement.
- Avascular necrosis: A condition in which reduced blood supply damages bone tissue, potentially leading to collapse of the femoral head.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: Inflammatory joint disease that can damage the hip.
- Post-traumatic joint damage: Significant injury or a previous fracture that affects the joint surface.
- Other forms of advanced hip degeneration: Conditions that cause substantial joint damage and persistent functional limitations.
Hip pain does not always mean that surgery is necessary. Medication, activity modification, physiotherapy, walking aids or other appropriate treatments may help, depending on the diagnosis. Hip replacement is considered when the expected benefits justify the risks for the individual patient.
About Dr. Vijay Kumar Sohanlal-Total Hip Replacement Doctor in Kilpauk
Dr. Vijay Kumar Sohanlal is an orthopaedic and joint replacement surgeon practising in Chennai. His professional education includes an MBBS from Mysore University and an MS in Orthopaedics from Sri Ramachandra Medical College, Chennai.
His further training includes fellowship training in joint replacement surgery at Breach Candy and Lilavati Hospital in Mumbai, advanced joint arthroplasty training at St. Josef Bruderkrankenhaus Hospital in Germany, and training in joint replacement and arthroscopy at Sportsmed Hospital in Australia.
His clinical work includes hip and knee joint replacement. The choice of treatment for an individual patient depends on the diagnosis, examination findings, investigations, medical history and discussion of the available alternatives.
Dr. Vijay Kumar Sohanlal’s listed professional roles include work at MAHI Multispeciality Hospital in Kilpauk and MGM Healthcare in Chennai. Patients can ask about his current registration details, relevant qualifications, the proposed procedure and the arrangements for postoperative follow-up when discussing their care.
What Happens During Total Hip Replacement?
The treatment process usually involves several stages.
1. Preoperative assessment
The doctor reviews the patient’s symptoms, medical history, current medication and physical function. An examination and appropriate imaging, usually including X-rays, help assess the joint. Blood tests and other investigations may be required to evaluate fitness for surgery.
2. Anaesthesia and preparation
The procedure is performed under an appropriate anaesthetic, commonly spinal or general anaesthesia. The anaesthesia team considers the patient’s medical history and overall health when planning care.
3. Replacement of the damaged joint
The damaged femoral head is removed, and the socket is prepared to receive the artificial cup. A stem is placed in the thighbone, with a prosthetic head attached to it. The components are positioned to provide appropriate joint function and stability.
Depending on the patient’s circumstances, the surgeon may use cemented or cementless fixation. The choice is based on clinical factors and the planned implant.
4. Early postoperative care
After surgery, the clinical team monitors the patient’s condition, manages pain and assesses when mobilisation can begin. Walking with assistance and starting prescribed exercises are often part of the early recovery plan.
What Does Recovery After Hip Replacement Involve?
Recovery is gradual and differs from one patient to another. Age, general health, muscle strength, the condition of the other joints, surgical factors and rehabilitation all influence progress.
Patients may begin standing or walking with assistance soon after surgery when clinically appropriate. A physiotherapist helps with walking, exercises, balance and safe movement. The team also explains how to manage everyday activities during the healing period.
Some patients return to many routine activities within several weeks, while others need more time. Regaining strength and confidence can take several months. There is no single recovery timeline that applies to everyone.
Patients should follow their treating team’s instructions about wound care, medication, walking aids, exercise, driving and returning to work. Hip precautions depend partly on the surgical approach and individual risk factors, so patients should not assume that every precaution applies to every operation.
What are the Possible Risks of Total Hip Replacement?
Total hip replacement is an established operation, but it is major surgery and has potential complications. These include:
- Infection around the wound or implant
- Blood clots in the legs or lungs
- Dislocation of the artificial joint
- Bleeding or injury to nearby nerves or blood vessels
- Differences in leg length or persistent discomfort
- Implant wear, loosening or the need for further surgery
The likelihood of complications depends on individual health, the condition being treated and other clinical factors. A preoperative assessment helps identify relevant risks and plan appropriate precautions.
Patients should seek urgent medical attention if they develop sudden breathlessness, chest pain, significant calf swelling, fever with wound concerns or sudden severe pain around the operated hip. The treating team should provide specific instructions about symptoms that require prompt assessment.
How Long Can a Hip Replacement Last?
The lifespan of a hip implant varies. It depends on the implant design, fixation, activity level, body weight, bone health and other factors. Many implants function for years, but wear or loosening can occur over time.
Regular follow-up, appropriate activity and adherence to medical advice can help monitor the joint. Patients should discuss the expected lifespan of the proposed implant and the possibility of revision surgery with their surgeon.
What Should Patients Discuss Before Surgery?
A consultation should allow patients to understand their diagnosis and the available options. Useful questions include:
- What is causing my hip pain?
- Are non-surgical treatments still appropriate?
- What benefits can reasonably be expected in my situation?
- What complications are relevant to my medical history?
- Which implant and surgical approach are being considered, and why?
- What support and rehabilitation will I need at home?
- What follow-up appointments will be required?
The decision to undergo surgery should be made after an informed discussion of the expected benefits, risks, alternatives and the patient’s preferences.
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