The Hip
The hip joint is a ball and socket synovial joint, formed by an articulation between the pelvic acetabulum and the head of the femur. It forms a connection from the lower limb to the pelvic girdle, and thus is designed for stability and weight-bearing – rather than a large range of movement.
Anatomy
Procedures
Total Hip Replacement
Total hip replacement surgery is a common option for the treatment of osteoarthritis. It involves replacing the entire hip joint; any remaining cartilage in the joint is removed and the femoral head (ball) and the socket are replaced. These materials are placed to mimic your original joint and cartilage.
A total hip replacement is one of the most successful surgeries we do. It has the ability to drastically reduce your associated pain and greatly improve your freedom of movement.
Hip Revision
While hip replacement surgery and hip joint resurfacing are often successful, it can sometimes be necessary to replace the joint again. If it is found that the artificial components in your hip are damaged, it can lead to increased pain in the area. The components can also become infected or loosen which both require revision surgery.
Our aim in any joint replacement surgery is to give you a long-term solution that shows results beyond your goals; however, sometimes hip revision surgery is a necessary part of that journey.
Hip Resurfacing
The advantages for this surgery come from the preservation of the bone in the hip joint. Unlike a total hip replacement, this surgery involves covering the femur bone with a metal cap rather than replacing the femoral head all together. This surgery also reduces the possibility of hip dislocation as the ball in the joint is made to closely replicate the size of the natural ball.
Like most joint replacement surgeries, the artificial components can loosen and wear over time; therefore, if you need additional surgery in the future, the bone that remains makes the revision surgery less complex.