Hip Resurfacing is a new procedure that allows Dr. Zechmann to replace part of the hip. 

In order to reduce hip pain and increase function surgery may be needed. There are several surgical options available to patients, and age is somewhat an indicator of the type of surgery best suited. For the younger group, one such surgical option is called hip resurfacing and, for many, this may be a viable solution for chronic hip pain.

Unlike a total hip replacement, a surface replacement leaves more of your bone in place and does not remove your femur neck shaft. A total hip replacement consists of three parts: a plastic cup that replaces your hip socket; a metal ball to replace the femoral head; and a metal stem that attaches to the bone shaft. Typically, only the femur head will be reshaped and resurfaced with a femoral shell during a hip resurfacing. The surgical procedure will reduce pain and ensure joint stability. The chance of dislocation is also lower with this surgery than with a total hip replacement.

The surgery is generally used as an alternative to total hip replacement and is often suggested for active patients under the age of 55. Sometimes a patient will need to have a total hip replacement at a later date. Hip resurfacing may give the patient time for new technological improvements to emerge in the field of total hip replacement surgeries.

Recovery from a hip resurfacing surgery is expected to last from six weeks to three months. Rehabilitation is very important to your recovery. You will speed up your recovery process if you remain active and perform your hip strength building exercises. A physical or occupational therapist will help you create an exercise program that is right for you.

Advantages of Hip Resurfacing

• Femoral head is preserved.
• Femoral canal is preserved and no associated femoral bone loss with future revision. Also, the risk of microfracture of femur with uncemented stem implantation is eliminated.
• Larger size of implant "ball" reduces the risk of dislocation significantly.
• Stress is transferred in a natural way along the femoral canal and through the head and neck of the femur. With the standard THR, some patients experience thigh pain as the bone has to respond and reform to less natural stress loading.
• Use of metal rather than plastic reduces osteolysis and associated early loosening risk.
• Use of metal has low wear rate with expected long implant lifetime.

Special Risks of Hip Resurfacing

• Lack of long-term track record. Current device has only been used for about 10 years. Despite known low wear rate, longevity and long-term effects of wear debris are unknown.
• For some surgeons, the procedure has a longer surgical time. The procedure requires a more skilled surgeon.

Special Requirements of Resurfacing Patients

• Solid bone in femoral head to hold resurfacing component. A few cysts or slight AVN collapse may be acceptable.
• Healthy kidneys to process any blood borne metal ions from debris products.