Total hip replacement
Both the ball at the top of the thigh bone and the hip socket are replaced with artificial components. This is the most common form of hip replacement for advanced joint damage.
Hip Replacement Treatment in Poland
Waiting for Hip Replacement Surgery in Ireland?
If hip pain, stiffness or reduced mobility is affecting your everyday life, waiting indefinitely for treatment can be difficult. MedTrip Poland helps patients living in Ireland explore private hip replacement treatment in Poland, with access to experienced orthopaedic specialists and support throughout the process.
You can send us details of your diagnosis, referral and any scans or medical reports you already have.
Treatment in Poland Specialist assessment, surgery options and support
for patients travelling from Ireland.
Hip replacement at a glance
Hip replacement is commonly considered when damage to the joint causes persistent pain and reduced movement and other treatments are no longer providing sufficient relief.
01
What is replaced?
During a total hip replacement, the damaged ball and socket of the hip joint are replaced with artificial components, commonly made from metal, ceramic or plastic.
02
When may surgery be considered?
Surgery may be recommended when hip pain, stiffness and loss of movement significantly affect everyday activities and conservative treatment has not provided enough relief.
03
What happens after surgery?
Mobilisation normally begins soon after the operation. Recovery varies between patients and rehabilitation is an important part of regaining strength and mobility.
115,450 patients were waiting for inpatient or day-case treatment
in Ireland at the end of May 2026.
Already waiting for treatment?
Long public hospital waiting lists can mean a significant delay before treatment. Private treatment in Poland may provide another option for patients who want to explore earlier access to an orthopaedic consultation and, where clinically appropriate, hip replacement surgery.
Source: National Treatment Purchase Fund (NTPF)Tell us what you are currently waiting for
Briefly tell us about your hip condition and where you are in the Irish healthcare system. If you already have a referral, X-ray, MRI or other medical documentation, you can let us know below. We can then discuss possible next steps and treatment options in Poland.
Hip replacement explained
What happens during hip replacement surgery?
Hip replacement surgery is designed to replace the damaged parts of the hip joint with artificial components. In a total hip replacement, both the femoral head and the socket are replaced. The aim is to reduce pain, improve joint function and help restore mobility.
Partial hip replacement
In selected cases, only the femoral head and part of the upper thigh bone are replaced while the natural socket remains. The final choice depends on the individual condition.
Implant options
How is a hip replacement fixed in place?
Different implant systems can be used depending on bone quality, age, anatomy and the surgeon's assessment. The most suitable option is selected individually rather than using one implant type for every patient.
Cemented hip replacement
The implant is secured to the bone using surgical bone cement. This method may be considered where bone quality or other clinical factors make cemented fixation appropriate.
Uncemented hip replacement
The implant is designed to allow the patient's bone to grow onto or into its surface, creating biological fixation over time.
Hybrid hip replacement
A hybrid system combines cemented and uncemented components. For example, one part of the replacement may be cemented while another uses biological fixation.
Your surgeon selects the implant
Implant choice depends on the condition of the hip, bone quality, age, activity level and the surgeon's preferred surgical technique.
Modern hip replacement aims to support earlier mobilisation
Some orthopaedic centres use muscle-sparing or minimally invasive approaches where clinically appropriate. The objective is to reach the hip joint while limiting unnecessary soft-tissue damage and supporting early rehabilitation.
✓ Mobilisation may begin soon after surgery
✓ Physiotherapy begins during the early recovery period
✓ Walking aids may initially be used for balance and safety
✓ Recovery plans are adapted to the individual patient
Recovery after surgery
What happens after a hip replacement?
Recovery begins in hospital and continues after discharge. Patients are normally encouraged to begin moving as soon as it is safe to do so. Physiotherapy is used to rebuild strength, improve movement and support a gradual return to everyday activity.
Early mobilisation
Standing and walking usually begin during the early post-operative period.
Hospital stay
The length of stay depends on the surgical technique, general health and progress after surgery.
Physiotherapy
Exercises focus on strength, joint movement, balance and walking.
Return to activity
Recovery continues over the following weeks and months, depending on the individual patient.
Private treatment in Poland
Considering hip replacement surgery in Poland?
Patients living in Ireland can explore private orthopaedic treatment in Poland rather than continuing to wait indefinitely for the next step. Medical records and available imaging can be reviewed before treatment arrangements are made, and the treating orthopaedic specialist decides whether hip replacement is clinically appropriate.
Specialist assessment
Review of symptoms, diagnosis, X-rays, MRI scans and existing records.
Treatment planning
Information about the recommended procedure, expected stay and preparation.
Private hospital care
Surgery and post-operative care are provided by the treating clinic in Poland.
Practical support
Help with arranging the treatment process and required documentation.
HSE reimbursement
Can hip replacement treatment in Poland be reimbursed by the HSE?
Eligible healthcare received in another EU or EEA country may qualify for reimbursement under the HSE Cross-Border Directive, subject to the applicable HSE rules. Patients normally require an appropriate referral and must meet the relevant eligibility and documentation requirements.
Reimbursement is not automatic and the final decision is made by the HSE. The amount reimbursed cannot exceed the amount the HSE would normally pay for the same or equivalent treatment in Ireland.
Travel, accommodation and other non-medical expenses are generally not included in the reimbursement.
Frequently asked questions
Hip replacement treatment abroad
What medical records should I have before enquiring? +
If available, it is useful to have your orthopaedic referral,
X-ray or MRI report, previous consultation letters and information
about treatments you have already tried. The clinic can advise
if anything else is required.
Do I need to travel to Poland before surgery is confirmed? +
This depends on the treating clinic and the medical information
available. Records and imaging may often be reviewed before travel,
but the final qualification and treatment recommendation are made
by the orthopaedic specialist.
How long will I stay in hospital? +
Hospital stay varies according to the surgical technique,
your general health and your progress after surgery. The clinic
will confirm the expected stay as part of the treatment plan.
Will I be able to walk after hip replacement? +
Mobilisation normally begins during the early recovery period.
Patients commonly use walking aids initially while physiotherapy
helps rebuild strength, balance and confidence.
Is hip replacement only for older patients? +
No. Although hip replacement is more common in older adults,
surgery may also be considered in younger patients where severe
joint damage, arthritis or injury significantly affects function.
The decision is based on clinical need rather than age alone.
Can hip replacement in Poland qualify for HSE reimbursement? +
It may qualify under the EU Cross-Border Directive if the patient
and treatment meet the HSE requirements. The final eligibility
and reimbursement decision always remains with the HSE.
Already waiting for hip replacement surgery?
Tell us where you are in the treatment process and what medical documentation you already have. We can help you explore private hip replacement treatment options in Poland and explain the next steps.
Ask About Hip Replacement in Poland
