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What is Hip Resurfacing and When is it Recommended?
If you have been living with hip pain, there’s a good chance it has affected your quality of life. Especially for those suffering from severe hip pain, the limitations it can cause for the most basic movements–walking or running, standing for prolonged periods of time, sitting and rising, climbing stairs, or bending and lifting objects–can make even the most basic daily activities difficult, unpleasant, or even impossible,
At Ortho Westmount, we understand the importance of effective hip surgery treatments to alleviate pain and restore function. One advanced solution we offer is hip resurfacing, a procedure designed to relieve pain and restore function in patients with hip joint issues. In this blog post, we will explore what hip resurfacing is, when it is recommended, and why it might be the right option for you.
What is Hip Resurfacing?
Hip resurfacing is a bone-conserving surgical procedure that involves capping the femoral head with a metal prosthesis rather than completely replacing the ball-and-socket joint of the hip.
The process begins with the surgeon trimming and capping the femoral head with a smooth metal cap. The acetabulum (hip socket) is also fitted with a metal cup. This metal-on-metal bearing system reduces wear and extends the implant's lifespan.
Hip Resurfacing vs. Traditional Total Hip Replacement
While both hip resurfacing and total hip replacement surgery can alleviate hip pain and restore function, there are key differences between the two procedures.
Unlike a total hip replacement, which removes the entire top of the thigh bone (femoral head), hip resurfacing preserves more of the patient's natural bone, leading to reduced risks for hip dislocation down the line.
Hip resurfacing is generally recommended for younger, active patients with strong bone quality. A total hip replacement operation, on the other hand, is suitable for a wider range of patients, including older individuals and those with weaker bones.
Preserving bone stock in hip resurfacing can be beneficial for potential future surgeries, offering more options if a revision surgery is needed. Total hip replacement may limit these options due to the amount of bone removed during the initial procedure.
Who are Candidates for Hip Resurfacing?
Hip resurfacing is not suitable for everyone. The ideal candidates are typically younger, active individuals under the age of 60 with strong bone quality and who lead relatively active lifestyles.
Conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and hip dysplasia can make a patient a good candidate for hip resurfacing. However, each case is unique, and a thorough evaluation by an orthopedic specialist is essential to determine the best course of action.
Risks and Considerations
As with any surgical procedure, hip resurfacing carries certain risks. Potential complications include the risk of femoral neck fracture and the release of metal ions into the bloodstream.
Though femoral neck fractures are rare, the likelihood increases with age or in patients with lower bone quality, as these factors can affect bone strength and healing capacity.
The release of metal ions into the bloodstream is another rare but notable concern with metal-on-metal implants. Over time, the wear of these components can release small amounts of cobalt and chromium ions, potentially leading to inflammation and adverse reactions in surrounding tissues.
To mitigate these risks and others, follow-up care and monitoring is crucial for long-term implant success.
What is the Recovery Time for Hip Resurfacing Surgery?
Recovery from hip resurfacing surgery involves several stages. The immediate post-surgery phase focuses on managing pain and preventing complications. Patients will begin physical therapy soon after surgery to promote healing and restore mobility.
In the rehabilitation process, physical therapy will focus on gradually increasing your range of motion, strengthening the muscles around the hip joint, and helping you return to normal activities. Most patients can expect to resume their daily routines within six months, although individual recovery times vary.
Following rehabilitation protocols and attending all follow-up appointments are essential for achieving the best possible outcomes. Our team at Ortho Westmount is committed to supporting you throughout your recovery journey, ensuring you regain your mobility and quality of life.
Contact Ortho Westmount to Learn About Your Options
At Ortho Westmount, we offer personalized and expert care for orthopedic conditions. Our state-of-the-art hip resurfacing procedures are performed by skilled and experienced surgeons–we do everything possible to make sure our patients have the best possible outcomes.
If you are experiencing hip pain, contact Ortho Westmount today for a consultation to learn about your treatment options and our service fees. Our experienced team will evaluate your condition and help determine if hip resurfacing is the right solution for you. Take the first step towards a pain-free, active lifestyle with Ortho Westmount.
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