Our Summary

This research paper is about a study on hip resurfacing, which is a type of hip replacement surgery. It’s often used for younger, active patients. The researchers specifically looked at a particular hip resurfacing device called Birmingham Hip Resurfacing, which was approved by the FDA in 2006.

The study involved 1333 patients, who were monitored for an average of 4.3 years after their surgery. The average age of the patients was 53.1 years, and most of them were men who had osteoarthritis.

The results of the study were very positive. Complications were rare, with only a few cases of fractures, infections, and metallosis (a reaction to metal debris). There were no dislocations, no loosening of the femoral component of the implant, and no destructive pseudotumours (non-cancerous growths caused by the body’s reaction to the implant).

The overall success rate of the surgeries was 99.2% over the study period, and every male patient under the age of 50 had no infection-related complications. The researchers believe this is the largest study of its kind in the U.S., involving a single surgeon and a single resurfacing system.

FAQs

  1. What is the Birmingham Hip Resurfacing device and when was it approved by the FDA?
  2. What were the results of the study on hip resurfacing and what was the overall success rate of the surgeries?
  3. Who were the patients involved in the study and what were the most common complications reported?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing hip replacement surgery to follow their post-operative care instructions carefully, including doing prescribed exercises, attending physical therapy sessions, and avoiding high-impact activities. It’s also important for patients to maintain a healthy weight, quit smoking, and attend regular follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider to ensure the hip replacement is healing properly. Additionally, patients should be aware of any signs of infection, such as increased pain, redness, swelling, or fever, and report them to their doctor immediately.

Suitable For

Based on the findings of this study, hip resurfacing with the Birmingham Hip Resurfacing device appears to be a viable option for younger, active patients with osteoarthritis. This type of surgery may be recommended for patients who want to maintain a high level of physical activity and mobility after their hip replacement.

It is important to note that not all patients are suitable candidates for hip resurfacing. Patients with severe osteoporosis, inflammatory arthritis, or other medical conditions may not be good candidates for this type of surgery. Additionally, patients who are older or have a history of hip fractures may be better suited for a traditional total hip replacement.

Ultimately, the decision to undergo hip replacement surgery, whether it be hip resurfacing or a total hip replacement, should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider. They can assess the patient’s individual circumstances, medical history, and goals for post-surgical mobility to determine the most appropriate treatment option.

Timeline

Before the hip replacement surgery, a patient typically experiences chronic hip pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. They may have tried various conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications, and injections to manage their symptoms without success. The decision to undergo hip replacement surgery is often made after careful consideration with their orthopedic surgeon.

After the surgery, the patient will have a period of recovery and rehabilitation. They will spend a few days in the hospital for monitoring and physical therapy. They will then be discharged to continue their recovery at home, following a prescribed rehabilitation program to regain strength and mobility in their hip.

Over the following months, the patient will gradually increase their activity level and return to their normal daily activities. They will continue to follow up with their surgeon for monitoring and evaluation of their progress. With proper care and rehabilitation, most patients experience significant improvement in their hip function and quality of life after hip replacement surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with hip resurfacing surgery, specifically with the Birmingham Hip Resurfacing device?
  2. How long can I expect the Birmingham Hip Resurfacing device to last before needing a revision surgery?
  3. What is the recovery process like after hip resurfacing surgery, and what kind of physical therapy or rehabilitation will be necessary?
  4. Are there any restrictions or limitations on activities or movements following hip resurfacing surgery?
  5. How experienced is the surgeon in performing hip resurfacing surgeries, and how many procedures have they performed with the Birmingham Hip Resurfacing device?
  6. What alternative treatment options are available for hip osteoarthritis, and why is hip resurfacing recommended for younger, active patients?
  7. Will I need to undergo any additional testing or evaluations before being deemed a suitable candidate for hip resurfacing surgery?
  8. How successful has the Birmingham Hip Resurfacing device been in comparison to other types of hip replacement devices?
  9. Are there any long-term effects or complications associated with metal-on-metal hip resurfacing devices, such as metallosis?
  10. How often should I follow up with my surgeon after hip resurfacing surgery, and what signs or symptoms should I watch out for that may indicate a complication?

Reference

Authors: Brooks PJ. Journal: Bone Joint J. 2016 Jan;98-B(1 Suppl A):10-3. doi: 10.1302/0301-620X.98B1.36360. PMID: 26733633