Our Summary

This research paper focuses on a surgical procedure performed on a young patient with dwarfism who had issues with both of their hips. Replacing the hips can be challenging due to the smaller size of the joints and the difficulty in finding prosthetics that fit properly. In this particular case, the doctors used a special technique to create a custom-fit piece for the hip replacement. They used a technology called selective laser melting to create a highly porous piece that encourages the bone to grow into it and creates a more stable joint. The authors suggest that this technique could be a good solution for complex joint surgeries where integration with the bone is crucial.

FAQs

  1. What challenges are unique to performing hip replacements on patients with dwarfism?
  2. What is selective laser melting and how is it used in hip replacements?
  3. How does the use of a highly porous piece created through selective laser melting contribute to a more stable joint in hip replacement surgeries?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about hip replacement is to follow the post-operative rehabilitation plan closely. This typically includes physical therapy exercises to strengthen the muscles around the hip joint, improve flexibility, and aid in recovery. It is important for the patient to be diligent in following the prescribed exercises to help regain mobility and function in the hip joint. Skipping or neglecting these exercises can potentially lead to complications or a slower recovery process. It is also important for the patient to communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms to their healthcare provider to ensure optimal healing and recovery.

Suitable For

Typically, patients who are recommended for hip replacement surgery are those who have severe hip pain that limits their daily activities, have hip pain that persists even while resting, have difficulty walking or climbing stairs, have hip pain that interferes with sleep, have little to no relief from pain medications or other treatments, and have tried other treatments such as physical therapy or injections without success.

Additionally, patients with conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, avascular necrosis, hip fractures, hip dysplasia, and other hip conditions may also be recommended for hip replacement surgery. The decision to undergo hip replacement surgery is usually made after a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider who will consider the patient’s medical history, symptoms, physical examination, imaging studies, and overall health.

It is important for patients to discuss the risks and benefits of hip replacement surgery with their healthcare provider to determine if it is the right treatment option for them. Hip replacement surgery can greatly improve quality of life and mobility for patients with severe hip pain and dysfunction.

Timeline

Before the hip replacement surgery, the patient would have experienced chronic hip pain, difficulty walking or standing for long periods, limited range of motion in the hip joint, and potential muscle weakness in the hip and surrounding areas. They would have likely tried conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications, and assistive devices to manage their symptoms.

After the hip replacement surgery, the patient would experience immediate relief from hip pain and improved mobility. They would need to work with a physical therapist to regain strength and range of motion in the hip joint. The patient would also need to follow a rehabilitation program to gradually increase their activity level and return to their normal daily activities. Over time, the patient should experience improved quality of life, increased mobility, and reduced risk of future hip problems. It is important for the patient to follow their doctor’s recommendations for post-operative care and attend follow-up appointments to monitor their progress.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the success rate of hip replacement surgery in patients with dwarfism?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with hip replacement surgery in patients with dwarfism?
  3. How long is the recovery process expected to be for a patient with dwarfism undergoing hip replacement surgery?
  4. Will I need physical therapy or rehabilitation after the surgery, and if so, what will that entail?
  5. How long can I expect the hip replacement to last, and are there any long-term considerations I should be aware of?
  6. Are there any restrictions or limitations I should follow in terms of activities or movements after the surgery?
  7. Will I need any additional follow-up appointments or monitoring after the hip replacement surgery?
  8. How will the custom-fit piece created using selective laser melting technology benefit me compared to traditional prosthetics?
  9. What is the expected outcome or prognosis for my hip function following the surgery?
  10. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that may be considered for my condition?

Reference

Authors: Memminger M, Banci L, Meoli A. Journal: Orthopedics. 2019 Sep 1;42(5):e477-e479. doi: 10.3928/01477447-20190627-03. Epub 2019 Jul 3. PMID: 31269219