Metallic Hip Resurfacing – An Alternative To Replacement

A new technique that has been proposed as an alternative to conventional hip replacement surgery is the metallic hip resurfacing surgery. Also known as “metal on metal” hip resurfacing, this technique has the advantage that it can be offered to younger persons who are in need of a total hip replacement or implant, but in whom there is a greater chance of the implants not lasting the patient’s lifetime.

The hips have two components – the acetabulum of the pelvic bone forming the socket which receives the ball or the head of the thigh bone. In conventional total hip replacement, both the diseased ball and socket are removed in their entirety and replaced with artificial implants resembling the two components. In the case of metallic hips resurfacing, only the diseased portion of both bones is removed and metal is used to resurface the area. They are then resurfaced with metallic prostheses.

Metallic resurfacing is most beneficial in younger patients who are in need of hip replacements. When a conventional artificial hip prosthesis wears out, it needs a replacement - a procedure commonly known in surgical parlance as transplant revision. The revision of hips is often more difficult and not as successful as the first replacement. This is a problem in younger patients undergoing total hip replacement.

When both the contact areas are metallic resurfaces, they should last longer than traditional implants, as metal is more durable than plastic. The durability of the resurfaced metal as oppsed to implants depends on the level of activity of the individual. Even if the metal resurface wears down, it is easier to do a revision on the resurfaced hip. In the unlikely event of metallic resurfaced hips requiring a surgical revision, a conventional hip replacement is done.

Also see; hip pain symptoms.

About The Author:

Dr. Bharat Sharma is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.hip-replacement-care.com. He has been working in the medical rehab field for more than a decade. Keeping up to date with techological advancements he has become a self appointe