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HomeSummaryReview of the conditionConsidering surgeryPreparing for surgeryAbout the procedureTechnical detailsAnesthetic Length of total hip resurfacing arthroplastyRecovering from surgeryRehabilitationConclusion

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Bone-Sparing, Total Hip Resurfacing Arthroplasty Surgery (Metal-on-Metal Device)

Last updated Friday, January 18, 2008

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Image 4
Image 4

Image 5
Image 5

About the procedure

Technical details

After the anesthetic has been administered and the hip is prepared, the surgeon makes an incision. Most surgeons approach the joint from the posterior (rear); others prefer a lateral (side) or anterior (front) approach. During the posterior approach, fibers of the gluteus maximus muscle are split. The tendinous insertion of the gluteus maximus is recessed or divided to allow movement of the femur bone.

The interval between the gluteus minimus and the superior acetabulum (hip socket) is developed and the piriformis tendon is released from its femoral attachment. A 360-degree capsulotomy is then performed.

The acetabulum is prepared. Bone spurs are removed. Reamers are used to enlarge the acetabulum in preparation for placement of the cup, whose position is crucial for a successful outcome. The cup is impacted into place.

The femur is prepared by using an alignment guide. A guide wire ensures that the spherical metal cap is positioned correctly on the femoral head. The surgeon, with a chamfering router-like instrument, removes only the outer layer of the femoral head, so that the cap will fit snugly (IMAGE 4). After the femur has been prepared, cement is mixed and the femoral cap component is impacted into place, also secured by a metal stem that extends into the femoral neck. (The femoral neck is left intact.)

With the femur and acetabulum completed, the hip joint is re-established (IMAGE 5) and taken through a range of motion to test stability. The soft tissues are repaired, and the remainder tissues are closed, in layers, and a dressing applied to the wound.

Anesthetic

Hip-resurfacing surgery can be performed under a general anesthetic or under a regional block (epidural or spinal). A spinal block can provide anesthesia for several hours after the surgery. The patient may wish to discuss their preferences with the anesthesiologist before surgery.

Length of total hip resurfacing arthroplasty

The procedure usually takes about two hours, however the preoperative preparation and postoperative recovery may add several hours of time. Patients often spend two hours in the recovery room and, on average, three days in the hospital after surgery.

Surgery for Total Hip Resurfacing Arthroplasty 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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