Hip resurfacing is a bone-conserving surgical option designed to relieve hip pain while preserving more of the patient’s natural bone compared to a traditional total hip replacement. Hip resurfacing can offer enhanced stability, greater mobility, and a lower risk of dislocation. Unlike a total hip replacement, which completely removes the femoral head, this procedure reshapes and covers it with a smooth metal cap, allowing for a more natural range of motion.
Overview
Diagnosis
Dr Hocking may recommend hip resurfacing for patients who experience significant hip pain due to Osteoarthritis (wear-and-tear damage to the joint).
To determine if you’re a suitable candidate, Dr Hocking will conduct a thorough assessment of your hip joint through medical history, physical examination, and advanced imaging like X-rays or MRI scans.
Procedure
The surgery is performed under general or spinal anesthesia and typically lasts 1 to 2 hours. Dr Hocking follows these steps:
- An incision is made to access the hip joint.
- The damaged femoral head is reshaped, and a metal cap is placed over it.
- The hip socket (acetabulum) is prepared, and a metal shell is inserted to complete the joint.
- The components are checked for proper fit, alignment, and motion.
- The incision is closed, and the patient is transferred to recovery.
Post-Operative Care
Recovery after hip resurfacing involves a hospital stay of 1 to 3 days. A structured rehabilitation program will start immediately to help restore movement and strength. Crutches or a walker may be required initially, and low-impact activities like walking, swimming, and cycling can typically be resumed after a few weeks. High-impact sports should be avoided until full recovery, which may take 3 to 6 months. Regular follow-up visits with Dr Hocking are crucial to ensure successful recovery and proper functioning of the new joint.