Artificial Hip Joints – Lasts Longer Than Life
The Basics Of Hip Joint
Hip joint is made of bones and cartilages, each of which if diseased can cause trouble for the bearer. Hip joints can become inflamed with rheumatoid arthritis, a humoral condition. Osteoarthritis that damages the cartilages aiding smooth and pain free movements to the hips. Congenital conditions of the hips in some cases may make the movements impossible. These disease conditions are capable of affecting daily performance.
Implant Material
Implants are made of variety of materials depending upon the purpose served by the artificial implant. Polyethylene is utilized to make the acetabular socket. Most of the implants use this material for acetabulum component owing to its strength and flexibility. Metals have been used since long for making the femoral component by virtue of its tensile strength and sturdiness. Metals are also considered to wear less than the polyethylene. Metals such as chromium, cobalt and titanium are currently used for making implants. Ceramic hip implant material is wear resistant and long lasting. Bones are living tissue and hence are liable to get damaged.
Implant Fixation
The hip replacement implant fixation can be cemented, non cemented or hybrid. The cemented type fixation uses a material that percolates into the small pores in the bone. The non cemented types implant have microporous components in which the natural bone tissue can grow in. the hybrid type includes both types of fixation methods. The traditional type of hip replacement technique involves an incision of ten to twelve inches through the skin and soft tissues. The minimally invasive hip replacements are a better option with a cut of only three to four inches. As minimum of tissue is severed, healing time is remarkably less. The support system of hips is spared during replacement hence implants are strongly held. This facilitates early ambulation and rehabilitation. Post operative complications are less owing to the small incision.
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