Hip replacement surgery was once considered a procedure that required travel abroad. Today, leading hospitals in Kampala — including UMC Victoria Hospital, International Hospital Kampala, and Mulago National Referral Hospital — perform total hip arthroplasty regularly, with outcomes comparable to international standards.
Who needs hip replacement in Uganda?
The most common indications are osteoarthritis (particularly in the ageing population), avascular necrosis of the femoral head (which has a high prevalence in Uganda due to sickle cell disease), fractures of the femoral neck in elderly patients, and rheumatoid arthritis. As Uganda's population ages and awareness of joint replacement grows, demand is increasing steadily.
Implant options
Modern hip prostheses offer a range of bearing surfaces: ceramic-on-polyethylene for younger, active patients; metal-on-polyethylene as a cost-effective option; and ceramic-on-ceramic for the lowest wear rates. Cementless fixation with hydroxyapatite-coated stems is preferred for most patients, while cemented stems remain appropriate for elderly patients with poor bone quality.
Cost and access
Local availability of hip prostheses reduces the overall cost of the procedure by eliminating international shipping, customs delays, and the need for patients to travel abroad. For many Ugandans, this is the difference between receiving treatment and living with chronic pain and disability.