Hip Replacement Differences – Cemented Or Uncemented

Hip replacement is performed on patients who have severe hip pain due to arthritis that does not respond to conservative measures. When a patient is considered for a hip replacement, differences exist in the techniques and variations of implants chosen by the surgeon for different patients.

A patient for hip replacement may either be operated by the traditional method involving a ten-inch long surgical incision or the surgeon may use a mini-incision technique of only a few inches in length. Differences in the composition of the material used in hips and the implant also are important depending on certain factors. With hip replacements, a difference of opinion also exist in the choice of implant; cemented or uncemented.

Generally, cemented hip replacements are carried out in elderly patients requiring hip replacements. The implant is positioned in its place and an acrylic glue made of methyl methacrylate applied between the implant and the bone. This glue also called the bone cement holds the implant onto the hips. Cemented hip implants are the choice in those with weaker bones. The main difference is that cemented implants also help the patient to walk immediately after the replacement surgery with no pain in the hips.

Uncemented hip replacements are indicated in younger patients whose bones are stronger. The implants used in uncemented hip replacements too are different from those used in cemented replacements. The implants have a rough, porous surface which allows newly formed bone to grow onto the implant. Since the implant needs formation of new bone to strengthen the artificial joint, the patient is unable to walk with full weight for at least 6 to 12 weeks.

With differences in the type of procedures and implants available for hip replacements, rely on the surgons choice of all the variations.

Also see; symptoms of hip bursitis.

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