Total Hip Replacement
Do I Need a Hip Replacement?
Hip replacement is most commonly recommended for patients with advanced osteoarthritis of the hip, though it may also be appropriate for other conditions including rheumatoid arthritis or avascular necrosis. You may be a candidate for hip replacement if you experience:
Persistent hip or groin pain that has not responded adequately to non-surgical treatments such as physiotherapy, medication, or injections
Pain that is present at rest or during the night, affecting your sleep
Stiffness that significantly limits your ability to walk, climb stairs, or perform everyday activities
X-ray or MRI evidence of significant joint degeneration
The decision to proceed with surgery is always made jointly between you and Mr Kosuge, based on your symptoms, examination findings, imaging, and personal circumstances. Mr Kosuge is committed to a shared decision-making approach and will ensure you have all the information you need to make an informed choice.
What is Hip Replacement Surgery?
Hip replacement surgery — also known as total hip arthroplasty — is one of the most successful and commonly performed operations in orthopaedic surgery. The procedure involves removing the damaged surfaces of the hip joint and replacing them with a prosthetic implant. For the vast majority of patients, it offers a dramatic and long-lasting reduction in pain, as well as a significant improvement in mobility and quality of life.
Mr Dennis Kosuge is a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon with a specialist interest in hip replacement surgery. He performs hip replacements at The Rivers Hospital in Sawbridgeworth (private) and The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust in Harlow (NHS), serving patients across West Essex and East Hertfordshire, including Bishop's Stortford, Epping, Hertford, Chelmsford, and the surrounding areas.
The Procedure
Hip replacement surgery is performed under spinal anaesthesia (less commonly a general anaesthesia) and typically takes between one and two hours.
Most patients are able to bear weight and begin walking with the support of a physiotherapist on the day of or the day after surgery. The average hospital stay following a hip replacement is one to two days, though this varies according to your individual progress and circumstances.
Recovery
Full recovery from hip replacement surgery typically takes three to six months, though most patients notice a significant improvement in pain levels within the first few weeks. Mr Kosuge provides comprehensive pre- and post-operative guidance, and his team will support you throughout your recovery.
Mr Kosuge routinely monitors his patients' outcomes using validated patient-reported outcome measures. You can review a selection of his outcome data on this website.
Book a Consultation
If you are experiencing hip pain and would like a specialist opinion, Mr Kosuge offers private consultations at The Rivers Hospital, High Wych Road, Sawbridgeworth, CM21 0HH. He is recognised by all major health insurance providers, including BUPA, AXA, Aviva, Vitality, and others. Self-pay appointments are also welcome.
To book an appointment, please call 01279 602675 or use the online booking link on this website.
NHS referrals to The Princess Alexandra Hospital, Harlow are also accepted via your GP.