Hip Resurfacing Arthroplasty
Hip resurfacing arthroplasty is a type of hip replacement that replaces the arthritic surface of the joint but removes far less bone than the traditional total hip replacement.
Because the hip resurfacing removes less bone, it may be preferable for younger patients that are expected to need a second, or revision, hip replacement surgery as they grow older and wear out the original artificial hip replacement.
Preparation for surgery:
Your orthopedic surgeon may suggest a complete physical examination. This is to ensure that you are in the best possible condition to undergo the operation.
You may also need to spend time with the physical therapist who will be managing your rehabilitation after the surgery. The purposes of the preoperative physical therapy visit is to record a baseline of information and to prepare you for your upcoming surgery.
You will begin to practice some of the exercises you will use just after surgery.
Surgical Procedure:
Surgeons perform this operation using several different approaches.
The anterior approach from the front of the hip and the posterior approach from the back of the hip. There is no one right approach. Many surgeons prefer the posterior approach because it keeps the joint capsule intact that may reduce the risk of dislocation after the surgery and damage the blood supply less.
Either approach is commonly used depending on the training and experience of the surgeon.
The operation begins by making an incision in the side of the thigh. This allows the surgeon to see both the femoral head and the acetabulum (or socket). The femoral head is then dislocated out of the socket. Special instruments are used to shape the bone of the femoral head so that the new metal surface will fit snugly on top of the bone.
The cap is placed over the smoothed head like a tooth capped by the dentist. The cap is held in place with a small peg that fits down into the bone. The patient must have enough healthy bone to support the cap.
The hip socket may remain unchanged but more often it is replaced with a thin metal cup. The cartilage is removed from the acetabulum and shape the socket to fit the acetabular component.
Once the shape is correct, the acetabular component is pressed into place in the socket. Friction holds the metal liner in place until bone grows into the holes in the surface and attaches the metal to the bone.
Risks of hip resurfacing arthroplasty:
Some of the most common complications following hip resurfacing arthroplasty surgery include:
- Anesthesia complications
- Thrombophlebitis (Blood clots)
- Infection
- Dislocation
- Femoral neck fracture
- Leg length inequality
- Loosening
