Hip problems are not just an ‘old ladies’ disease. Hips have deformities, wear out and fracture among the young and including men. Hip resurfacing in Oklahoma City is a viable alternative to traditional hip replacement. If you are ready to find out if you are a good candidate for hip resurfacing, schedule your initial consultation.
What is Hip Resurfacing?
In hip resurfacing, the femoral head and neck (the end of the thigh bone that plugs into the pelvis) are not removed. Instead, the nonviable tissue on the femoral head is targeted to expose healthy bone, and then capped with a smooth, metal, cup-like device. The damaged or nonviable tissue within the socket (located on the pelvis) is also targeted to expose healthy bone that is covered with a metal shell.
Why Opt for Hip Resurfacing?
The average life of a total hip replacement is approximately 15 to 20 years. Candidates for hip arthroplasty have been getting younger. Athletes and young people experience joint degeneration from high impact sports and overuse. Advanced arthritis may also require an intervention sooner and later. As the age of patients needing hip arthroplasty gets lower, the use of hip resurfacing becomes more common. Hip resurfacing conserves bone tissue that may be needed later on when candidates are older, at the time when more advanced disease and degeneration requires a traditional total hip replacement.
Who Qualifies for Hip Resurfacing?
Ironically, it is often—but not always— males, with larger frames and strong healthy bone, who are the ideal candidates for hip resurfacing in Oklahoma City. As well, the best candidates are in good overall health.
Resurfacing vs. Replacement: What’s the Difference?
A hip replacement involves the removal of the femoral head, neck and the socket. After both surfaces are prepared, they are replaced with metal, plastic or ceramic components. With hip resurfacing, the procedure may be easier to revise and there is a decreased risk of hip dislocation. Also, some studies report that postoperative walking patterns are more natural after hip resurfacing.
Getting Started in Oklahoma City
If you suspect that your chronic hip pain and discomfort will not go away until you evaluate the need for hip resurfacing, give the team at Olson Orthopedics a shout. Contact us today to book a consultation in Oklahoma City and learn more.
