Phase 01
Surgical Consultation & Decision
Determining the right procedure together, with clear explanations and realistic expectations.
What happens
- ›Discussion of diagnosis and imaging
- ›Discussion of the appropriate type of surgery
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Surgical Pathway
Muscle-sparing surgery, when necessary.
From consultation to long-term follow-up: a transparent, predictable pathway focused on rapid functional recovery.
The surgical pathway at EHC is built around predictability: you know in advance what each phase entails, who will guide you, and which evaluation moments are planned. For a total hip arthroplasty, we apply the muscle-sparing EDA technique within the One-Day-Hip protocol; for other procedures such as hip arthroscopy or PAO, we choose the most suitable minimally invasive approach with a customised recovery plan.
Comparison
Surgical versus non-surgical: which is right for you?
A concise comparison of both pathways on the most important criteria. Which path suits you is decided together during consultation.
| Criterion | Non-surgical pathway | Surgical pathway |
|---|---|---|
| Indication | Early or mild complaints, preserved cartilage, manageable with conservative care. | Advanced osteoarthritis, structural damage, or failure of conservative therapy. |
| Pathway duration | 12 to 16 weeks of exercise therapy, followed by maintenance. | Surgery in one day, rehabilitation is procedure-dependent: for a total hip replacement a few weeks, for other procedures 3 to 6 months. Follow-up to 1 year. |
| Recovery time | Gradual progression, no time off work or sport. | For total hip replacement (One-Day-Hip): same-day discharge, light activities within 2 weeks. |
| Risks | Limited, mainly exercise related. | Surgical risks such as bleeding, infection or thrombosis; kept low at EHC thanks to protocol. |
| Guidance | Hip Coach, exercise programme in the HipCloud app, evaluation every 2 to 3 months. | Multidisciplinary team, perioperative protocol, postoperative rehabilitation and check-ins. |
| When to consider | First option whenever the condition allows it. | When pain, mobility or function do not improve sufficiently despite exercise therapy. |
The pathway
Step by step, at your own pace.
5 steps at a glance. Click a step to open the details.
Determining the right procedure together, with clear explanations and realistic expectations.
What happens
- ›Discussion of diagnosis and imaging
- ›Discussion of the appropriate type of surgery
Frequently asked questions
Good to know.
What exactly does 'muscle-sparing' mean?
With muscle-sparing techniques, such as the EDA approach for a total hip arthroplasty, the hip is accessed by moving between the muscles without cutting them. This aids recovery and preserves muscle function. For other procedures (arthroscopy, PAO), we use different minimally invasive techniques tailored to that specific condition.
Does the One-Day-Hip protocol apply to every hip surgery?
No. The One-Day-Hip protocol was specifically developed for total hip arthroplasty using the EDA technique and does not apply to hip arthroscopy, PAO, or other procedures. Furthermore, we assess each patient individually to determine eligibility based on their general health and home situation.
How often will I see my surgeon after the procedure?
Typically at 6 weeks, 3 months, and 1 year, and periodically thereafter. For any questions in between, your Hip Coach is your dedicated point of contact via HipCloud.
When can I return to sports?
Light activities are usually possible from 4-6 weeks, with a sport-specific return after 3 months under supervision. A different timeline applies to contact sports.
What about reimbursement and hospitalisation?
The procedure is covered under the RIZIV nomenclature. Hospitalisation insurance typically covers the stay and supplements. We will provide a transparent cost overview in advance.
Further reading
Explore related topics.
Non-Surgical Hip Pathway
Conservative rehabilitation as a first step, when surgery can still be avoided.
Read more about Non-Surgical Hip PathwayHip Conditions
Hip osteoarthritis, FAI, dysplasia, and labral tears: when is surgery a sensible option?
Read more about Hip ConditionsResearch & Innovation
How EHC uses data, PROMs, and outcome measurement to work towards better hip care.
Read more about Research & InnovationSchedule a Surgical Consultation
Discuss your surgical options with the EHC team in Westerlo.
Read more about Schedule a Surgical ConsultationReady to discuss your pathway?
During a first consultation we look together at which path suits you best.
Recovery after total hip replacement
When can you return to sport after hip replacement?
Returning to sport after total hip replacement is a gradual process. Wound healing, muscle strength, balance and movement control together determine when an activity is safe again. Your surgeon and physiotherapist tailor the progression to your personal recovery.
A safe progression in three phases
- 01
Early recovery
Walking, daily movement and your prescribed exercises form the foundation. Increase the load gradually and avoid activities with a risk of falling.
- 02
After the first check-up
If wound healing, mobility and muscle control are progressing well, gentle low-impact activities can be expanded.
- 03
Sport-specific return
Build duration, resistance and technique separately. Resume intensive or technically demanding sports only after individual advice from your care provider.
Cycling, swimming and golf
Cycling
You will generally start on a stationary bike with a high saddle and light resistance. Outdoor cycling follows only when mounting, dismounting, balance and an emergency stop can be performed safely.
Swimming
Wait until the surgical wound is fully closed and dry. Start gently and discuss breaststroke or powerful turning movements with your physiotherapist first.
Golf
Practise short shots and controlled rotation first. Then gradually increase the number of holes and the length of your swing.