Are you considering a hip replacement? Then you will need to locate a Jacksonville orthopedic surgeon for a consultation. But first, you need to understand the difference between a hip replacement and hip resurfacing before you can determine which procedure is best for you.

What is a Hip Replacement?

A hip replacement is a medical procedure performed by orthopedic surgeons. With this procedure, an orthopedic doctor will replace the painful hip joint and replace it with an artificial one. Hip replacement surgery can be done as a full replacement or a half hip joint replacement. A hip replacement is generally recommended for those with a chronic inflammatory disease that causes pain, stiffness and swelling in the hip.

What is Hip Resurfacing?

Hip resurfacing is similar to a hip replacement except the hip joint is relined rather than being completely replaced like it is in a hip replacement surgery. Hip resurfacing helps provide the patient with a more active and better quality of life because it preserves as much of the natural bone as possible and only replaces the damaged bone and cartilage in the socket.

Your orthopedic doctor will determine if you are a candidate for hip resurfacing. Generally, candidates for this type of surgery are under 60 and have strong, healthy bones. Hip resurfacing surgery (HRS) can help with mild to moderate pain from osteoarthritis if it’s done before any major bone damage has occurred. This surgery is usually an overnight procedure and most people are up and walking within four hours of having the surgery.

The Advantages of Hip Resurfacing

There are many advantages of hip resurfacing, such as:

• It preserves the femoral neck and femoral canal and minimizes bone removal while using a smaller implant.
• It’s a smaller device which results in a more rapid recovery.
• There is minimal bone removal.
• Fewer chances of dislocation.

What’s Next?

If you would like more information about hip resurfacing, please Contact Southeast Orthopedic Specialists today.