Birmingham hip resurfacing surgery is a procedure in which the surface of the hip’s ball and socket joint is replaced with an artificial material. This procedure preserves the bones present in the hip joint, and is offered as an alternative to total hip replacement surgery. With this treatment method, only the surfaces of the joints are replaced.
The Birmingham Hip Resurfacing restores the natural shape of the joint meaning better stability, longevity and higher levels of patient activity than a traditional hip replacement.
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Birmingham hip resurfacing surgery has lower rates of dislocation than standard hip replacement surgery. Furthermore, as patients who undergo the procedure are of a relatively younger age and have their hip bones preserved means that any revision surgeries could be done much easier than standard hip replacement. Birmingham hip resurfacing surgery uses metal on metal components, which allows for an average lifespan of 10 years for 95.4% of patients, although in some cases, even up to 20-25 years.
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With Total Hip Replacements, the femoral head (ball joint of the hip) is removed and replaced by a long, stemmed device. Very little of the femur is retained - as shown in the diagram below. The procedure is reasonably successful in elderly, relatively inactive patients. However, replacement hip joints wear out quickly in younger, more active patients, leading to the inevitable saga of revision surgery and associated complications. With the BHR procedure, however, Mr McMinn removes just a few millimetres from the two articulating surfaces of the hip. The procedure is bone-conserving because most of the joint is retained (see diagram). The femoral head is shaped to accept a low-wear metal sphere. This sphere matches the patient's anatomy, meaning there is a low risk of dislocation, a broad range of movement and excellent stability. The acetabular socket (cup joint of the hip) is then fitted with a corresponding metal cup. Since the metal femoral component articulates within a metal acetabular cup, the BHR is referred to as a Metal-on-Metal (MoM) hip joint. A comprehensive range of sizes is offered to address the needs of most patients, even those with acetabular deficiencies.
Those who do seek out Birmingham hip resurfacing surgery must first have a physical examination and x-ray of their hip to determine the severity of the disease, and assess the version (angle) of the femoral neck in relation to the femur, as these factors can have an effect on the success rate of surgery.
Patients return from surgery with a large dressing on the hip area. They may be required to wear “anti-embolism” stockings to reduce the risk of developing blood clots. A small drainage tube will be placed during surgery to help drain excess fluids from the joint area. Rehabilitation and physical therapy are started immediately following surgery and continue throughout hospitalization and at home for one year after surgery. Additionally, periodical blood analyses to evaluate cobalt and chromium levels are performed.
Specific problems may arise and these include: Infection Dislocation Thrombosis Death Loosening Hip Fracture and Avascular Necrosis (AVN) Loss of Motion (Stiffness) Nerve Damage
Who is a suitable candidate for the procedure?
Suitable candidates for the procedure are limited to those under the age of 65 years who have good bone quality.
How Long Is Recovery?
You may have to wear a brace or cast to keep your knee stable. You’ll likely also have to use crutches for at least a month to keep weight off your knee. Your doctor may recommend physical therapy as part of your recovery. It’ll help increase your range of motion and help your knee get stronger. They may also share some exercises you can do at home. If you have a partial or total meniscectomy, you can expect your recovery to take about a month. If your meniscus was repaired, it may take as long as 3 months.