Over the past generation, joint replacement surgeries have become increasingly prevalent, with more than 6,000 procedures performed annually in Israel. Hip replacement surgery is typically recommended for patients suffering from pain, limited mobility, and a reduced quality of life due to cartilage degeneration in the hip joint. This surgical intervention is generally considered when conservative treatments—such as pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy—no longer provide adequate relief.
As the joint continues to deteriorate over time, its structure may become increasingly distorted, further restricting movement. This often leads to limping and difficulty with everyday activities such as walking, standing, sitting, and rising from a seated position—resulting in chronic and often severe pain. The primary objective of hip replacement surgery is to alleviate pain and improve mobility, flexibility, and overall quality of life.
As part of this project, data were collected from more than 262 patients who underwent elective hip replacement surgery at Sheba Medical Center. Participants completed the HOOS-PS questionnaire, which assesses physical function, prior to surgery and again at three months, six months, and one year following the procedure.
The Outcomes
Based on data collected between 2019 and 2024, reveal that among patients who rated their preoperative condition as moderate to severe, 84% reported clinical improvement approximately six months after surgery. In contrast, 11% experienced a decline in their baseline condition, while 5% reported no significant change.
