Hemi replacement

Hemi Replacement: A Solution for Partial Hip Joint Degeneration

Hemi replacement, also known as hemiarthroplasty, is a surgical procedure in which only one part of the hip joint is replaced. This procedure is typically recommended for patients who have damage to either the femoral head (ball) or the acetabulum (socket), but not both. It is often used for certain types of hip fractures or in patients with specific types of arthritis or degeneration affecting only the femoral head.

What is Hemi Replacement?

Hemi replacement is a type of hip surgery that involves replacing only the femoral head (the ball of the hip joint) with a prosthetic component. The acetabulum (the socket part of the joint) is left intact unless it shows signs of significant damage or degeneration.

This procedure is often performed in cases where the socket is in good condition but the femoral head has been damaged due to conditions such as:

1. Hip Fractures: Particularly common in older adults due to osteoporosis or falls.
2. Avascular Necrosis: A condition where blood supply to the femoral head is disrupted, causing bone death.
3. Certain Types of Arthritis: When only the femoral head is affected by arthritis, and the acetabulum remains healthy.

Hemi replacement can provide relief from pain and restore function to patients who may not be suitable candidates for total hip replacement due to specific joint conditions or age factors.

Benefits of Hemi Replacement

1. Pain Relief: Hemi replacement can effectively relieve pain caused by hip fractures, arthritis, or avascular necrosis, especially when only the femoral head is damaged.
2. Restoration of Mobility: The procedure allows for improved mobility, enabling patients to return to daily activities like walking, climbing stairs, and exercising.
3. Preservation of the Natural Hip Socket: Since only the femoral head is replaced, the natural acetabulum (hip socket) is preserved, which may offer a more natural feel and function for patients in certain situations.
4. Shorter Recovery Time: Compared to total hip replacement, hemi replacement typically involves a simpler procedure and may offer a quicker recovery time for some patients.

Our Approach to Hemi Replacement

1. Comprehensive Evaluation: A thorough evaluation, including medical history, physical examination, and imaging studies (X-rays, MRI), is conducted to assess the condition of the femoral head and the acetabulum. This helps determine whether hemi replacement is the best treatment option.
2. Customized Surgical Plan: Based on the patient’s condition, age, activity level, and overall health, a personalized surgical plan is developed. This may involve selecting the appropriate prosthetic components and deciding whether a minimally invasive approach or a traditional method is most suitable.
3. Advanced Surgical Techniques: We use the latest surgical techniques to ensure the best outcomes for our patients. Depending on the condition of the hip joint, the procedure can be performed through traditional or minimally invasive methods to reduce recovery time and scarring.
4. Post-Surgery Rehabilitation: After the surgery, rehabilitation is a crucial part of the recovery process. A tailored physical therapy plan will help restore strength, mobility, and range of motion, allowing the patient to return to their normal activities safely and efficiently.

Who is a Candidate for Hemi Replacement?

Hemi replacement is often recommended for patients who:

1. Have significant damage to the femoral head but the acetabulum remains intact or only mildly damaged.
2. Have experienced a hip fracture, particularly in older adults or individuals with weakened bone density.
3. Have avascular necrosis that has primarily affected the femoral head.
4. Are not suitable candidates for total hip replacement due to other medical conditions or age factors.
5. Have a desire for a less invasive procedure with a quicker recovery than total hip replacement.

Take the First Step Toward a Pain-Free Hip

If you are suffering from hip pain due to a hip fracture, arthritis, or avascular necrosis, and total hip replacement may not be necessary or suitable, hemi replacement could be the right solution. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how this procedure can help restore your quality of life and relieve pain while preserving the natural hip socket.