Types of Hip Replacements

Your hips are one of the most important joints in your body for mobility and support. As you age, your hip joint may become damaged due to wear and tear or an injury, leaving you with pain that could limit day-to-day activities. To fix this problem, an orthopedic specialist in Baltimore may recommend surgery, which is known as hip replacement.

Hip replacement surgery is used to replace an arthritic or injured hip joint with an artificial joint. The surgeon will remove the damaged cartilage and bone in your hip joint and replace it with a prosthetic. Several prostheses are available to choose from, each of which has advantages and disadvantages. Here are five of the most common types:

1. Total Hip Replacement (THR)

THR is a surgical procedure in which the damaged hip joint is replaced with an artificial one. This surgery replaces the femoral head and the acetabulum (the socket). This procedure can help relieve pain, improve mobility, and increase the quality of life for those suffering from a damaged hip joint due to degenerative diseases or injury.

Read this blog to know: How to tell if you are having a hip injury.

2. Partial Hip Replacement (PHR)

Partial hip replacement, also known as hemiarthroplasty, is a surgical procedure in which the damaged portion of the hip joint is removed and replaced with an artificial component. This surgery can help restore mobility and reduce pain while preserving more natural movement than a total hip replacement. During a PHR, only the femoral head, or ball portion of the joint, is replaced. The acetabulum (the socket portion) remains intact.

3. Total Hip Resurfacing

Hip resurfacing is a procedure where only the surface of the hip joint is replaced. The femoral head, damaged and causing pain, is removed and replaced with a smooth metal cap. The damaged natural socket in the pelvis is also replaced with an artificial piece made from cobalt chrome or titanium. This option tends to be suitable for younger patients who are too young for a total hip replacement.

4. Acetabular Hip Resurfacing

This method is similar to the total resurfacing procedure, but it focuses on replacing only the acetabulum or socket of the hip joint. The femoral head stays in place and remains natural while the worn-out acetabulum is replaced with an artificial one. This type of hip replacement is typically recommended for younger patients who may require a further hip replacement.

5. Revision Hip Replacement

This method is used when existing hip implants fail or cause pain and discomfort due to wear, tear, and dislocation. In this procedure, either partial or total implant removal is required. The new implant is then inserted and adjusted to ensure proper functioning. The anatomy, instability, and risk of infection are carefully evaluated in this type of surgery because it involves complex steps that can be more challenging than the initial hip replacement.

Signs You May Need a Hip Replacement

If you’re experiencing any of the following signs or symptoms, it may be time to consider a hip replacement:

– Persistent physical pain in the hips, groin, thighs, or buttocks.

– Difficulty walking or climbing stairs.

– Pain while resting.

– Limited range of motion due to pain or stiffness.

– Difficulty sleeping due to hip pain.

For the best hip replacement in Baltimore, contact Saint Agnes Hospital. Our expertly trained orthopedic surgeons and experienced staff are here to help you decide which hip replacement suits you.