Where in Dubai
Dr. Subhash sees hip patients at Grand Infinity Medical Center in Al Muteena, Deira, next to the Grand Excelsior Hotel. Bring any X-rays or scans you already have, on a disc or on your phone, with a list of your medicines. If he advises a hip replacement, he tells you at that visit which hospital the operation will be in and what your insurer needs before a date is set.
What is hip replacement surgery?
The hip is a ball and socket joint. In a hip replacement, the surgeon removes the worn ball at the top of the thigh bone and the damaged lining of the socket in the pelvis. They are replaced with an artificial ball and socket made of metal, ceramic or hard plastic. The new surfaces move smoothly, so the grinding pain of arthritis often eases. Most hip replacements are done for osteoarthritis. Others follow rheumatoid arthritis, an old fracture or a hip that has lost its blood supply (avascular necrosis). A total hip replacement replaces both the ball and the socket.
Who it can help
- Hip or groin pain that limits walking, putting on shoes and socks, or getting in and out of a car.
- Pain at night or at rest that painkillers no longer control.
- Stiffness that makes it hard to sit on the floor, kneel or pray in the way you are used to.
- Arthritis or avascular necrosis seen on X-ray or MRI, when physiotherapy, weight loss and medicines have not helped enough.
- An earlier hip replacement that has become loose, worn or painful (a revision operation).
How Dr. Subhash approaches it
Dr. Subhash trained in hip and knee replacement on a fellowship at Sunshine Hospitals, Secunderabad, India, in 2016. He performs total hip replacement, both first-time (primary) operations and revision surgery when an earlier replacement has failed. He also treats fractures of the pelvis and hip socket, which helps when arthritis follows an old injury. Simpler treatment comes first. When surgery is the right step, he explains the operation he plans for your hip, and why, before you decide.
What to expect
Consultation
He watches you walk, checks how the hip moves and reviews your X-rays. An MRI is sometimes needed.
Deciding together
If an operation makes sense, he explains it, the risks and the usual recovery. You take time to decide.
Preparing
Blood tests and a heart check confirm you are fit for the anaesthetic, and your insurer is asked for pre-approval. Plan help at home and a firm, high chair.
The operation
It usually takes one to two hours, under a spinal or a general anaesthetic.
In hospital
Most people stand and take a few steps with a physiotherapist on the day of surgery or the next day. A typical stay is one to three days.
Follow-up
He checks the wound at about two weeks, then your walking and the X-ray at about six weeks and three months.
Recovery, in general terms
Every patient is different. These are typical milestones, not a promise; your own plan comes from your consultation.
- Walking with a frame or crutches from the first day or two.
- Many people stop using walking aids at around six weeks.
- Driving is often possible at around six weeks, once you can control the car and brake hard. Ask at your follow-up and check with your insurer.
- Most daily activities return by about three months. Full recovery can take up to a year.
Risks to know about
- Infection, which may need antibiotics or further surgery.
- Blood clots in the leg or lung; you are given medicine and exercises to lower this risk.
- Dislocation of the new hip, most often in the first few months.
- A small difference in leg length, which some people notice.
- The new joint wearing or loosening over many years, which may need a revision.
When to book a visit
Book a visit if hip or groin pain is limiting your walking or sleep. After a hip replacement, call the clinic the same day for a hot, red or leaking wound, a fever, a swollen calf, or a hip that suddenly gives way or looks the wrong shape.
Where to book
Dr. Subhash sees patients at Grand Infinity Medical Center in Al Muteena, Deira, in north-east Dubai. The clinic is at Shop No. 4, next to the Grand Excelsior Hotel.
Grand Infinity Medical Center
Shop No. 4, next to Grand Excelsior Hotel, Al Muteena, Deira, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Questions patients ask
Do I need a referral to see an orthopedic surgeon in Dubai?
That depends on your insurance plan. Some Dubai plans let you book a specialist directly, while others ask for a GP referral first. Check your insurance card or ask the clinic when you call, and they can tell you what your plan needs.
How long does a hip replacement last?
Most hip replacements last at least 15 years, and many last longer. How long yours lasts depends on your age, weight and activity.
Will I be able to pray, sit on the floor or use a low toilet?
Many people return to prayer and floor sitting once the hip has healed, but deep bending is limited for the first weeks. A raised toilet seat helps early on. Tell Dr. Subhash what matters to you so he can plan around it.
Will I need someone at home after the operation?
Yes, for the first one to two weeks. You will be on crutches and cannot drive or carry heavy bags. Family help with meals and appointments makes the early weeks easier.
Book an appointment
The clinic confirms every booking by phone or WhatsApp.