What is a hip arthroplasty?

Hip arthroplasty translates to total hip replacement surgery, which involves resurfacing the hip for better mobility. Hip replacement was performed during the 1960s and is still a favoured approach to treat hip pain and immobility. However, medical advancements in joint replacement surgery and the use of visual imaging have made the surgery an effective, long-lasting procedure today.

The hip is the body's largest component and consists of a ball and socket. Cartilage covers the ends of the joint, making it easier to move the joint. A synovial membrane engulfs the hip and releases fluid to help lubricate the joint. Ligaments attach the ball to the socket to facilitate the swift motion of the hip.

What are the main reasons for hip arthroplasty?

Hip arthroplasty is done to address debilitating hip pain due to osteoarthritis, arthritis as a result of trauma and rheumatoid arthritis. Mainly, osteoarthritis is an age-related condition due to a worn-out hip. The hip can wear away as a result of repetitive stress or due to instability of the joint that occurs during childhood.

Conversely, rheumatoid arthritis is an attack on the body’s tissue. Because of the autoimmune disease, the synovial membrane can begin to thicken as a result of chronic inflammation. Ultimately, the condition destroys the hip's cartilage and, thus, leads to hip pain and stiffness of the joint.

How do you perform hip arthroplasty?

Hip arthroplasty involves replacing the damaged bone and cartilage with synthetic material. For example, Dr Rose replaces the femoral head with a metal stem inserted in the femur's centre. First, the component is press-fit or cemented to the bone. Afterwards, he places a ball made of natural-looking ceramic or metal over the top half of the stem. The ball makes up for the removed portion of the femoral head. Next, the acetabulum, the injured cartilage of the socket, is substituted with a metal socket. Either cement or screws help secure the socket in place. Finally, a spacer made of ceramic, plastic or metal is used to separate the ball and socket, promoting smooth, painless motion of the hip.