Hip Resurfacing

About the Procedure

Hip resurfacing is a form of arthroplastic surgery in which the “cup” of the hip joint (medically referred to as the acetabulum) is smoothed out and fitted with a cobalt chromium lining. Then the “ball” at the top of the femur (called the femoral head) is shaped to receive a cobalt chromium cap. This procedure is a modified form of total hip arthroplasty, with several potential advantages over its more radical counterpart. The two most significant advantages are the amount of native bone stock that is preserved and the large diameter of the cap placed on the femoral head.

It is not uncommon for patients who receive arthroplastic surgery to return for further revision once the prosthetic joint begins to wear or loosen. In the case of a recipient of a total hip replacement, subsequent revision can be difficult or hazardous due to the fact that more and more bone must be removed with each revision. Since hip resurfacing only involves shaping the femoral head rather than removing it outright along with portions of the femur itself, more bone stock remains after the procedure. This makes subsequent revision much less complicated and far more likely to be successful.

As a direct result of the fact that more of the femur bone and head are intact, the bone can thusly support a much larger diameter cap than could feasibly be used in a total hip replacement. Studies have shown conclusively, that hip arthroplasty of any kind benefits from these larger diameter heads as they greatly reduce the chances of dislocation, one of the most common malfunctions associated with all forms of orthopedic surgery.

What to Know Before the Procedure

Hip resurfacing is unique in that it is a completely metal on metal solution. While this lends it increased durability over time, it makes it unsuitable for individuals with frail bones or with metal related allergies and sensitivities. As a direct result of these considerations, women typically encounter more complications with hip resurfacing and may want to consider a full hip arthroplasty or other options instead.

Not all individuals suffering from an injury of the hip joint are qualified to be recipients off hip resurfacing. Generally, the procedure is best suited for people who have a femoral head that is mostly in tact and a femoral neck that is without any cysts or any other degenerative conditions. Additionally, patients who are obese or who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis are less than ideal candidates for a hip resurfacing procedure. It is very important that you consult with your doctor beforehand to determine whether or not hip resurfacing is safe for you.

What to Know After the Procedure

Despite the improved stability and other advantages of this type of procedure over total hip arthroplasty, the recovery process is nearly identical. High impact activities will have to be avoided for roughly 12 months after the procedure has been completed. You should also expect to commit to a custom tailored physical rehabilitation regimen for no less than 6 months after surgery. Your doctor should be in contact with your physical therapist to advise him or her on specific areas you will require assistance in.

Just as with any form of orthopedic surgery in which a prosthetic is employed, infection is a risk that the patient should take precautions against. Taking anti-biotics as prescribed by your doctor, inspecting the muscle around the operation site for discoloration or discharge, and monitoring your temperature for any spikes are all vital measures in detecting possible infections early so they can be dealt with.

Domestic Travel vs. International Travel

As with all kinds of arthroplastic surgery, finding an experienced surgeon to perform the procedure is key as studies show a direct correlation between the level of experience of a surgeon and the rate of success of the surgery they perform. One of the limiting factors of total hip arthroplasty is that immediately after surgery, the patient may require a hospital stay of up to a week before being ready to return home. Recovery time for hip resurfacing tends to be shorter and as a result, international travel is more feasible. Regardless of which one you decide, be sure to ask your doctor precisely how much recovery time you should take before resuming travel.