Are you awake during hip replacement surgery?

No, you will not be awake or aware during the surgery. Patients are kept completely comfortable and pain-free using one of two main types of anesthesia. With general anesthesia, you will be fully asleep throughout the entire procedure. Alternatively, with spinal or epidural anesthesia, an injection is given in your back to numb your body from the waist down.

During this time, you’ll also receive sedation to make you very sleepy, relaxed, and comfortable. Most patients have no memory of the surgery, even with this method. Your anesthesiologist will help determine the best option for you based on your overall health and preferences.