During hip replacement, a surgeon removes the damaged sections of the hip joint and replaces them with parts usually constructed of metal, ceramic and very hard plastic. This artificial joint (prosthesis) helps reduce pain and improve function.
Also called total hip arthroplasty, hip replacement surgery might be an option if hip pain interferes with daily activities and nonsurgical treatments haven't helped or are no longer effective. Arthritis damage is the most common reason to need hip replacement.
The hip is a ball and socket joint and is formed by the articulation point between the head of the femur and the acetabulum of the pelvis. The hip is surrounded by muscles, ligaments, and tendons that provide stability to the joint and allow for motion.
Cartilage
The surfaces of the ball and socket are lined with cartilage which enables the joint to move smoothly and freely. Deterioration of this smooth cartilage lining can be very painful and debilitating for patients. This can be due to a variety of reasons including arthritis (both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis), trauma, infection, and other specific conditions. A fibrous cartilage ring-like structure called a labrum lines the acetabular socket. This essentially deepens the hip socket and provides added stability to the joint. Injury to the labrum can be quite painful for patients as well.
The surfaces of the hip joint are lined with cartilage which enables the joint to move smoothly and freely. Deterioration of this smooth cartilage lining can be quite debilitating for patients, causing significant pain and stiffness. This can be due to a variety of reasons including arthritis (osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis), trauma, infection, and other specific conditions. Total hip replacement is a surgical procedure in which the arthritic bone is removed and replaced with prosthetic parts. Hip replacement has been considered to be one of the most effective procedures and can provide patients excellent relief with a pain free joint. Patients with hip arthritis that have not responded to conservative measures are likely good candidates for the surgery. With newer minimally invasive techniques and modern approaches such as the direct anterior approach, hip replacement patients are leaving the hospital sooner and recovering quicker.
Revision hip surgery involves replacing a portion or all of your previous hip replacement components. There are a variety of reasons why revision hip replacement is performed as listed below. Extensive workup is typically performed prior to revision surgery and can include bloodwork, advanced imaging, and occasionally hip aspiration. We ask that you obtain all prior medical records and operative reports related to the hip to bring with you to your office visit. Appropriate pre-operative workup ensures that you have the best possible outcome after revision hip replacement.
Reasons for Revision Hip Replacement
Implant loosening
Infection
Hip instability (dislocation)
Fracture
Bone loss
Implant wear
Computer navigation is a general term that describes an assortment of technology that can be utilized during joint replacement surgery with the main goal being more accurate implant positioning and alignment. Your surgeon can employ this technology during either primary or revision hip replacement to provide real-time intra-operative information. It can be used with any surgical approach including the anterior and posterior approach for hip replacement. With improved accuracy of implant positioning, computer navigation can help improve clinical outcomes and longevity of your hip replacement.
