Successful Hip Replacement Surgery for Sickle Cell Disease Patient from Chad

Background

A 25 year old male patient (Mr. Moustapha Alhadji Abatcha) from Chad had been suffering with sickle cell disease. Sickle cell disease is a genetic condition that can cause various problems involving different organs and tissues. Avascular necrosis (AVN) can occur due to a lack of blood supply causing damage to the bones. If it affects the hip joint this can cause intense pain, damage to the joint and make it difficult to walk. The patient suffered with left hip pain approximately 3 months prior to presentation. This had become progressively worse, especially when walking or standing for prolonged periods. Over the next two months this had become more limiting. He developed an obvious limp and was suffering with intense pain and limited movement in the hip joint. Due to his history of sickle cell disease he needed specialist orthopaedic assessment and treatment.

Looking for Specialist Care in India

Moustapha was able to gain specialist treatment at a hospital in India with the help of GetWellGo, a medical travel facilitator who help international patients plan their treatment. He was admitted at Fortis Memorial Research Institute (FMRI), Gurugram. He was assessed by the orthopaedics department consisting of Dr. Subhash Jangid, Dr. Sukant Vijay and Dr. Vaibhav Gautam. Tests were carried out including clinical examination and imaging which showed Moustapha had severe left hip arthritis caused by avascular necrosis with sickle cell disease. Based on the severity of the joint damage, Moustapha was advised to undergo a total left hip replacement using an uncemented implant and ceramic on polyethylene articulation via the direct anterior approach. The procedure was discussed alongside the possible benefits and risks. Patient consent was gained.

Surgical Procedure

Moustapha had undergone a detailed medical assessment which included lab work up, imaging and 2D echo to assess the heart. A pre-anaesthetic assessment was also done to determine if the patient was fit for surgery. On the 27th June 2026 Moustapha had a total left Hip replacement performed at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram. Surgery was performed with general and spinal anaesthesia. The direct anterior approach was used. The joint was reconstructed with a Stryker hip implant system including an acetabular shell, polyethylene liner, femoral stem and ceramic femoral head. During the surgery 2 units of packed red blood cells and 2 units of fresh frozen plasma were transfused due to his low hemoglobin. He tolerated the surgery well and was transferred to the ward.

Rehabilitation

Post-surgical care was provided to Moustapha including administration of analgesia and ice packs to control pain. A significant achievement made was on the day of surgery as he was able to walk using a walker. He was allowed to fully weight bear on his left operated leg. Physiotherapy was commenced which involved exercising his ankle and toes, strengthening his quadriceps, bending his knees, raising heels, marching and bridging. Walking using the walker and sitting in a chair were also included. During his hospital stay the surgical dressing was changed. The drain was removed on the second post-operative day. X-ray follow-ups showed that everything was going well. Overall Moustapha showed positive early results with correct medical supervision and rehabilitation. He was discharged on 30th June 2026 three days post-surgery.

Discharge

He was walking with a walker and was putting full weight on his left leg as advised. He could carry out all his daily activities independently. Moustapha was advised to continue his physiotherapy sessions with a health professional. He should apply ice packs for 15-20 minutes a few times a day. A high protein diet should be maintained and psychological/social support at home. Instructions on how to prevent falling were given. He must ensure that areas he is walking are kept clear, avoid walking on slippery surfaces. Ensure shoes fit well and use a sturdy walker. Medical follow up is important as he has an underlying condition of sickle cell disease.

How GetWellGo Helped Him

Going abroad for medical treatments can be difficult. Patients must find the right doctors, book appointments with hospitals and understand their medical treatments. GetWellGo helps international patients make these arrangements and receive the right medical care in India. Moustapha has had to receive specialist orthopaedic care due to complications caused by sickle cell disease. He received treatment at FMRI allowing him to start his rehabilitation shortly after surgery for his severe left hip damage.

Improving mobility

This case example illustrates the positive impact that a total hip replacement can have on patients suffering with severe arthritis due to avascular necrosis. Moustapha's mobility was significantly restricted due to severe pain. After surgery he had regained good mobility with the aid of a walking frame and was able to complete daily tasks independently. The patient has made great improvements due to the combined effort of the orthopaedics department, hospital staff and physiotherapy professionals. He had also engaged in his rehabilitation. Early assessment and management of patients suffering with sickle cell disease is vital in order to prevent complications such as avascular necrosis. This case example shows how international patients can seek specialist treatment options in India with the help of GetWellGo. We hope Moustapha continues to make progress and improve his mobility and quality of life.