Hip replacement, or total hip arthroplasty is a minimally invasive surgical procedure designed to replace a damaged or diseased hip joint with an artificial implant. It is commonly performed for conditions such as severe osteoarthritis, avascular necrosis, or traumatic injuries that lead to joint deterioration.
Minimally invasive hip replacement aims to preserve healthy tissues, including muscles, tendons, and blood vessels, by reducing the size and number of incisions required to access the joint. The surgeon uses one or two small incisions and carefully moves muscles aside rather than cutting through them. Minimally invasive surgery allows for faster recovery times and easier rehabilitation as well as reduced muscle damage. This approach however, may not be suitable for everyone. The suitability of the procedure depends on age, weight, fitness level, and the complexity of your hip condition. Your surgeon will evaluate these variables and discuss whether minimally invasive hip replacement aligns with your health goals and expected outcomes.
The hip is one of the longest joints in the body, functioning as a ball-and-socket joint. The socket, or acetabulum, is part of the pelvis, while the ball is the femoral head, the upper part of the femur (thighbone). These surfaces are covered with articular cartilage, a smooth tissue that cushions the bones and ensures effortless movement. Surrounding the joint is the synovial membrane, which produces fluid to reduce friction. Ligaments, known as the hip capsule, stabilize the joint by connecting the ball and socket. In hip osteoarthritis, the smooth articular cartilage wears away and becomes frayed and rough.
The type of hip replacement depends on your specific condition. There are two types of hip replacement: total hip replacement and partial hip replacement. In a total hip replacement, or total hip arthroplasty, both the ball (femoral head) and socket (acetabulum) are replaced. In a partial hip replacement, also known as hemiarthroplasty, only the ball is replaced. This is typically recommended when the socket remains healthy, such as in cases of a femoral head fracture.
The surgery for total hip replacement involves removing the damaged femoral head (the ball of the hip joint) and the worn-out cartilage in the acetabulum (the socket), and replacing them with a prosthetic joint made of metal, plastic, or ceramic components that mimic the function of a natural hip. The artificial joint replicates the smooth movement of a healthy tip. The hip replacement surgery is aimed at restoring comfort and mobility for individuals struggling with debilitating hip pain.