During surgery:

In the operation theatre, you will be turned onto your 'good' side and supports will be placed front and back to maintain this postion during the surgery. The leg to be operated upon will be cleaned with antiseptic and sterile drapes placed around your hip. The surgery is then carried out by the surgeon and one or two assistants. A scrub nurse who handles all the required instruments for the operation is also an essential member of the team. In addition, a circulating nurse is present in theatre to help. Other people who may be present on occasion in my theatre include, trainee nurses, medical and physiotherapy students and visiting surgeons.

The operation takes about 2 hours to perform. When it is finished, a bulky dressing is applied to the wound and a foam wedge (abduction pillow) placed between your legs. The wedge reduces the risk of dislocation (slippage of the ball out of the socket in the hip joint) of the hip. You will then be taken into the Recovery area.

For details of the operation click here.