Hip pain can be debilitating, causing you to change your lifestyle due to limited mobility and pain. If you are experiencing this, you may consider hip resurfacing surgery as an alternative to total hip replacement. This procedure is generally recommended for younger, very active people with stronger bone that is needed to support the new device. Mission Hospital's orthopedic surgeons can perform this surgery, but you should talk to your surgeon about all the surgical options before making a decision.
What is hip resurfacing surgery?
Hip resurfacing requires less bone removal than total hip replacement. The procedure begins with an incision to the thigh to expose the joint. The hip socket is smoothed and a new metal liner placed as is done with a total hip replacement. Next, the ball portion of the thigh bone is contoured to accept a metal cap over it much like a cap is placed on a tooth. The thigh bone ball is not removed completely however this procedure may take the surgeon more time and require a larger incision.
Patients who may benefit from this method include:
- People under 60
- Extremely active people
- People with strong bone around the hip joint (more men than women)
This technique may not be advised for people with advanced arthritis with bone loss, those with rheumatoid arthritis or osteonecrosis, obesity, impaired kidney function, osteoporosis or diabetes. Your surgeon should decide whether this technique is appropriate for you.
Advantages of hip resurfacing
Hip resurfacing may reduce hip pain and offer increased mobility. Other reasons to consider this procedure include:
- Less bone is removed compared to hip replacement
- A joint replacement later is typically less complex because less bone is removed initially
- Increased hip range of motion allowing return to higher levels of activity
