Hip resurfacing

Hip resurfacing is a bone-conserving alternative to total hip replacement.

Hip resurfacing surgery involves replacing parts of your damaged hip joint with metal implants. During the procedure, the damaged surface of the ball and socket that comprises your hip joint are replaced with a protective cover, which is often made of metal.

This treatment is often needed because part of your hip has become damaged or diseased, causing chronic hip pain and reduced mobility.

What is the difference between hip resurfacing and hip replacement?

During hip resurfacing, your Consultant will trim and shape damaged cartilage and bone, replacing it with a metal cover.

Almost all the bone in your thigh and hip socket will stay in place. During hip replacement, your Consultant will remove the entire head of your thigh-bone and replace it with a metal stem.

This is inserted through your thigh-bone (femur).

Is hip resurfacing a good alternative to hip replacement?

Hip resurfacing is an alternative operation that removes less bone, potentially making surgery on your hip in the future easier.

It may or may not last longer than a hip replacement depending on your circumstances and general health and wellbeing, so it is important to discuss which procedure would work best for you with your Consultant.

You will have a consultation before surgery to speak with your Consultant about your hip resurfacing surgery.

During your appointment, he or she will explain exactly what will happen during your surgery, as well as what to expect in your recovery period.

Understanding the risks and alternatives to any surgery is important to ensure you are informed and any queries you have are answered. It will be an excellent opportunity for you to ask any questions and understand the procedure a bit better.

During the procedure, a few millimetres are resurfaced from the two articulating surfaces of the hip.

The femoral head (ball joint) is shaped to accept a low-wear metal sphere, and the acetabular socket (cup joint) is fitted with a corresponding metal cup.

What are the benefits of hip resurfacing?

Hip resurfacing utilises a large femoral component, which restores the natural size and shape of your hip.

This is beneficial to you for several reasons:

Hip resurfacing offers better stability
A greatly reduced risk of dislocation
A broad range of movement
Increased longevity
Higher levels of patient activity than traditional hip replacements.

And, if for some reason a second surgery is needed in the future, the femoral bone is still intact, meaning a second procedure is much easier.

How safe is hip resurfacing surgery?

Hip replacement and resurfacing are generally safe surgical procedures. These include:

Like any surgery, hip resurfacing surgery does have some risks.
Infection
Dislocation of the hip joint
Blood clots, and
Nerve damage

It is important to discuss these risks with your Consultant to understand their likelihood and put your mind at ease.

You should be able to return to many everyday activities after six weeks following the surgery.

However, you should consult with your consultant surgeon regarding the length of your recovery and when you can begin lifting heavy objects or standing for long periods of time again.

You will be given physiotherapy exercises to practice.

It is important that you practice these as instructed, as they are designed to facilitate a speedy effective recovery.

A breakdown of the surgery cost for hip resurfacing

Please be aware that the following prices are a guide price. Your final price will be confirmed in writing following your consultation and any necessary diagnostic tests.