Expert Hip Resurfacing Specialist in Columbia, SC

Why Choose Hip Resurfacing?

Hip resurfacing is a cutting-edge procedure ideal for those seeking a near-normal joint post-surgery, especially athletes or individuals engaged in heavy physical work. Unlike total hip replacement (THR), hip resurfacing maintains a more normal gait even at higher speeds and is suitable for impact sports.

Understanding Joint Degradation:

Severe arthritis in the hip erodes the hyaline cartilage, causing bone-on-bone pain, particularly during weight-bearing or impact activities. Current treatments like stem cell injections or microfracture during hip arthroscopy offer limited relief, especially in larger defects. Joint replacement becomes the only viable solution for significant cartilage loss.

The Surgery Process:

In joint replacement, the cartilage and some bone are replaced with artificial surfaces, recreating joint movement and protecting the bone, similar to the original joint. However, an artificial joint is never fully “normal,” with imperfect healing and biomechanical differences influencing the outcome.

Hip Resurfacing vs. Total Hip Replacement:

Hip Resurfacing Arthroplasty (HRA) provides a closer biomechanical mimic to the natural hip, sacrificing only a thin layer of bone, thus maintaining stability and normal load transfer. In contrast, THR often involves a larger metal stem and a smaller bearing size, leading to a less stable and biomechanically altered joint, limiting high-impact activities.

Durability and Longevity:

Hip resurfacing boasts impressive durability, with a 99% implant survivorship at 13 years in Dr. Gross’s practice. International studies support these findings, especially in younger, active patients. In comparison, THR shows a higher failure rate in younger patients, with a 10-year implant survivorship as low as 80% for patients under 50.

Hip Stability:

Hip resurfacing has a significantly lower dislocation rate (0.3%) compared to THR (about 3%). It allows for more extreme motion activities post-recovery, like yoga, ballet, or kayaking, which might be risky with a THR due to its inherent instability.

Bone Preservation:

HRA is particularly advantageous for younger patients who may require future revisions. It preserves more femoral bone compared to THR, making any potential future surgeries less invasive and more straightforward.

Enhanced Patient Survivorship:

Studies indicate a 20% lower mortality rate among HRA patients compared to THR patients over 10 years, possibly due to the increased likelihood of engaging in regular, vigorous exercise post-surgery.

Reduced Risk of Debris Failure:

HRA now presents a lower risk of debris failure compared to THR. The last wear failure in HRA was over 12 years ago, demonstrating the efficacy and safety of the procedure.

Hip resurfacing is a superior option for active individuals seeking a solution that closely mimics the natural hip. It offers enhanced durability, stability, bone preservation, and a lower risk of debris failure. It is ideal for younger patients or those aspiring to maintain an active lifestyle post-surgery.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact us at (803) 256-4107.

Experience the difference with Hip Resurfacing Arthroplasty. Don’t let hip pain hold you back. Join the countless individuals who have regained their active lifestyles, thanks to this innovative procedure. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step towards a pain-free, active future. We serve patients from Columbia, SC, Irmo, SC, Lexington, SC, and surrounding areas.