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HomeSummaryReview of the conditionCharacteristics of minimally-invasive total hip replacement surgery - degenerative joint diseaseTypes Similar conditionsIncidence and risk factorsDiagnosis Medications Exercises Possible benefits of hip osteoarthritisConsidering surgeryPreparing for surgeryAbout the procedureRecovering from surgeryRehabilitationConclusion

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Minimally-Invasive Total Hip Replacement Surgery

Last updated Friday, August 10, 2007

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Review of the condition

What are some general characteristics of minimally-invasive total hip replacement surgery - degenerative joint disease? What are its usual manifestations?

  • Osteoarthritis damages the cartilage, the soft material between the leg bone and the socket, which helps the joint move easily.
  • Patients with osteoarthritis of the hip frequently experience joint pain and discomfort, stiffness and swelling, which inhibit their movements, such as walking, stair climbing and prolonged sitting.

What are the different types of minimally-invasive total hip replacement surgery - degenerative joint disease?

The most common condition leading a person to seek a hip replacement is osteoarthritis.

Other conditions include:
 
  • Rheumatoid arthritis – a chronic disorder that inflames the joints and causes erosion to the cartilage.
  • Injuries ‑ such as those experienced in car accidents, may contribute to one’s likelihood of developing degenerative joint disease and thus he or she may need a hip replacement
  • Autoimmune diseases – such as lupus, where the immune system attacks the joint cartilage
  • Avascular necrosis – a condition where the bone dies, leading to destruction of cartilage

What else might be confused with or similar to minimally-invasive total hip replacement surgery - degenerative joint disease? How can these be distinguished from the condition?

  • Back problems
  • Muscle strains or bursitis

Physicians can distinguish hip osteoarthritis from other conditions by performing a careful examination, gathering a complete patient medical history, and having x-ray(s) taken. A magnetic resonance image (MRI) or other tests may be needed to confirm diagnosis.

How common is minimally-invasive total hip replacement surgery - degenerative joint disease (statistics, demographics, risk factors)?

Hip arthritis is very common. An estimated 40 million Americans report having been diagnosed with osteoarthritis; a significant portion of these people has arthritis in the hip. This statistic has led to more than 250,000 total hip replacements performed in the United States each year. About two-thirds of patients with hip arthritis may be eligible for the minimally-invasive hip replacement operation.

People who have a higher risk for hip arthritis or degenerative joint disease include:

  • People who are obese
  • Those with a family history of hip problems
  • People who have experienced severe hip trauma
  • Those with inflammatory conditions or autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus

How is minimally-invasive total hip replacement surgery - degenerative joint disease diagnosed? What tests or exams may be used?

A physician will gather a complete medical history, perform a careful examination of the patient’s hip and obtain x-rays. If arthritis of the hip is present, that evaluation will discover it. An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) or other studies may be helpful in some cases, but usually are not needed.

Can medications help minimally-invasive total hip replacement surgery - degenerative joint disease?

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, like ibuprofen, and non-narcotic painkillers, like acetaminophen, may help alleviate some of the pain associated with hip osteoarthritis/degenerative joint disease.

Can exercises help minimally-invasive total hip replacement surgery - degenerative joint disease?

For many patients, exercise is a key component to coping with arthritis. Although exercise cannot restore worn cartilage, keeping the muscles around an affected joint strong and flexible can sometimes improve the pain and disability that result from arthritis.  A regular program of low-impact, aerobic exercise should be followed.  Good activities are swimming, water aerobics or cycling to keep your joint functioning and improve strength and motion.

Specifically, how is minimally-invasive total hip replacement surgery - degenerative joint disease improved by hip osteoarthritis?

Hip replacement surgery is a surgical technique to treat arthritis pain in the hip. The traditional replacement procedure has been performed for 40 years, but recent advances have made a less-invasive approach available.

In both surgical approaches, the ball and socket of the hip joint are replaced. After recovery, most patients report a vast improvement in their overall quality of life as they are able to resume their activities of daily life. Many patients are able to regain an active life, enjoy increased mobility and frequently are free from pain, stiffness and swelling. Some people report their sleep quality is improved due to a lack pain and discomfort.

Surgery for Minimally-Invasive Total Hip Replacement Surgery - degenerative joint disease at the University of Washington

If you are interested in making an appointment to discuss this procedure, you can request an appointment using our online referrals website. To request a referral online, please click here. You can also call 206-598-4288 (outside the Seattle area: 800-440-3280) to make an appointment.


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