Tuesday, February 19, 2019

Hip Replacement Surgery: The Essential Facts


Hip replacement surgery is often performed to alleviate chronic pain in the hip area. Patients who live with chronic hip issues often find the surgery very beneficial, as it allows them to return to their lives, moving around more freely and with more enjoyment. There are several different types of hip replacement surgery, each suited to the specific symptoms and pain points of the individual patient.

Orthopaedic surgeon Dr Ali Ghoz is an expert in hip replacement, knee replacement, knee surgery, knee arthroscopy and anterior cruciate ligament procedures. In his practice Dr Ghoz works on a patient-by-patient basis to offer the most suitable surgery or solution, and he also advises his patients to really consider the timing of their hip operation - suggesting that it is advisable when the pain begins to negatively affect their day-to-day life. 

Non-surgical options may be worth exploring before committing to hip surgery, which includes specific exercises and pain relief medication. If surgery is the best way forward for the patient there are several options to consider. From hip replacement to hip resurfacing replacement, there is an option that will best suit each patient.

One method of hip replacement is X-ray guided hip surgery, which is minimally invasive and requires no muscle to be cut. As a less invasive procedure, X-ray guided hip surgery requires a shorter hospital stay and a shorter rehabilitation period, leaves a smaller scar, and allows the patient to return to their normal life quicker.

In replacement surgeries, there are several different bearings used in the ball and socket joint of the hip, each of which should last a lifetime. Traditional bearings have a metal head that moves within a plastic liner, and studies show that the liner takes 30 years on average to wear out, making it a great choice for anyone with an active lifestyle.

Metal on metal bearings are even stronger and more durable, and as such are often recommended for younger hip replacement patients.

Ceramic bearings are another option suitable for younger patients, as the material has an extremely low wear rate, meaning that the bearing could outlast the patient!

As there are so many options, choices and differentiators in hip replacement surgery, having a skilled and technically adept surgeon is vital.