Is Hip Replacement Major Surgery? Exploring Tradition and Modern Advances
Hip replacement surgery, traditionally classified as major due to large incisions and long recovery, has undergone significant advancements. Minimally invasive and robotic-assisted techniques now enable smaller incisions, less tissue damage, reduced pain, and quicker recovery times. While risks remain, these innovations have improved patient outcomes, shortened hospital stays, and lessened rehabilitation periods. Patient factors like obesity and complex anatomy still affect surgery complexity, but many experts question whether hip replacement should always be deemed major surgery today. This evolution reflects a shift in surgical standards and patient experiences, highlighting the importance of updated definitions in modern medical care.
