Painful Hips | Stiff Hips | Swollen Hips

A hip replacement is also known as a hip arthroplasty. This is a surgical procedure where the damaged or diseased joint is replaced. A specially manufactured device must be implanted by an orthopaedic surgeon & this is commonly referred to as a 'hip prosthesis'. The first attempt to undertake surgery of this kind was actually made in the 19th century, by a remarkable surgical pioneer called Themistocles Glück. Although Glück was heavily criticised at the time for his innovation he can perhaps be considered today as the Leonardo da Vinci of orthopaedic implant design. Fast forward to the 1960s, & the renowned British surgeon Sir John Charnley developed his game-changing 'low friction arthroplasty'. That outstanding concept began an era when the vital triumvirate of 'pain relief', 'restored mobility', & 'time' (implant longevity) became routinely available to patients.

Modern hip replacement is now a remarkably effective procedure. Developments in both plastic bearing components & ceramics have shown a noteworthy capacity to extend the life of prosthesis. Such advances with the device hardware are now complimented by sophisticated 'imaging based' pre-operative planning tech. The actual procedure can also be augmented with a burgeoning array of 'Robotic Assistant' innovations. Monitoring of implant performance & lineage by both the UK based ODEP (Orthopaedic Data Evaluation Panel) & National Joint Registries ensures that hip replacement components are independently audited. Both the Australian & the New Zealand National Joint Registries are highly regarded by global orthopaedic alumni. Michael is influenced in his choice of implants by both ODEP (generally favouring a 10A rating or longer) & by the findings of the Joint Registries & other peer-reviewed literature.

Prior to contemplation of hip replacement surgery it is essential to consult with an orthopaedic surgeon who is experienced in both the diagnosis, & the undertaking of the procedure. Like any surgical intervention, there are potential risks & complications that can occasionally occur. Michael understands 'patient hip concerns' so his objective is to always explain his findings, & the available options, in a friendly & understandable way. Should it be necessary to suggest either hip replacement or an alternative procedure, patients can be reassured that both the pre-operative planning & the surgery will be carried out with meticulous attention to detail.