If you’ve had a hemipelvectomy with reconstruction, you’ll see different members of the rehabilitation team to make sure all your needs are met. Rehabilitation for hemipelvectomy with reconstruction is different for everyone.
What is a hemipelvectomy with reconstruction?
If you have sarcoma in your pelvis, you may have a hemipelvectomy with reconstruction, also known as hemi-pelvic replacement. This is surgery to replace part of your pelvis with a prosthetic metal implant.
Hip precautions
After a hemipelvectomy with reconstruction, you will need to limit how you move your hips for around 12 weeks after surgery. These are called hip precautions:
- Do not bend your hip beyond a 90° angle.
- Do not cross your legs or move your operated leg across the imaginary line down the centre of your body.
- Do not twist your operated leg.
Your OT will make sure you have the right equipment and setup at home to help you with these hip precautions.
Physiotherapy for hemipelvectomy with reconstruction
After your surgery, you’ll see a physiotherapist. This is usually the day after surgery. They’ll teach you exercises to do and help you to start walking with crutches or another walking aid.
If you need to climb stairs regularly, your physiotherapist will teach you how to do this. You may still have some restrictions from the surgery though.
Your physiotherapist will give you exercises to do at home after discharge. It is very important that you do these regularly to make sure you get the best possible outcome from your new joint. You will also be referred to ongoing physiotherapy as an outpatient as close as possible to where you live.
Occupational therapy for hemipelvectomy with reconstruction
You will see an occupational therapist (OT) while you’re recovering in hospital. They’ll help you by discussing how you’ll manage your activities and daily life after leaving hospital.
An OT can also help you by:
- showing you techniques to be more independent including how to manage daily activities while following hip precautions
- recommending equipment that is useful for hip precautions, for example long handled grabbers and sock aids.
- giving you advice about hip precautions
- giving you support or equipment for discharge
- giving you advice about returning to work or school
- helping you return to usual leisure activities.
You might be referred to other members of the rehabilitation team too. Speak to your physiotherapist, clinical nurse specialist (CNS) or specialist about other forms of rehabilitation you might benefit from.
Last reviewed June 2025
Next review due June 2028
