Hip Procedures
At WestSound Orthopaedics in Silverdale, Washington, we perform an extensive medical evaluation as well as thorough diagnostic testing to properly assess the condition of the hip and help our patients choose the proper surgical option for them. Much like the knee, the hip bones are protected by tissue called cartilage. This tissue protects the ball of the hip during normal movement such as bending, straightening, and rotating. In an unhealthy condition, this cartilage is damaged, causing the bones in the hip socket to rub unprotected against each other. There are two potential options for addressing this problem, total hip replacement or hip resurfacing.
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Total Hip Replacement
In total hip replacement surgery precision instruments are used to replace the damaged hip with artificial parts called prosthesis. There are three components to the prosthesis: a socket, ball, and stem, which are made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. In total hip replacement, the femoral head is removed and a hip stem is inserted down the shaft of the femur.
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Hip Resurfacing
In some cases, the surgeon may determine that this is not necessary, thus making it possible to preserve the femoral head and neck. The surgeon and patient would opt for hip resurfacing surgery instead. With hip resurfacing, the surgeon will only remove a few centimeters of bone around the femoral head, making it possible to fit inside a resurfacing implant. (This cap fits over the femoral head much like a cap fits over a tooth.) While there are several additional benefits of choosing this procedure, the most significant benefit is bone conservation.
Please visit our Patient Education Library to learn more about hip resurfacing or visit www.birminghamhipresurfacing.com.
For more information about hip replacement surgery in Silverdale, Washington, please call WestSound Orthopaedics at (360) 698-6630 or use our online appointment request form!
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