The field of orthopedics has developed a lot in the last 2-3 decades that accurate treatment procedures are there depending upon the severity or extent of the condition. Even Ortho Implants are also there that are designed specifically to fit accordingly.
In this post, we are going to talk about one such orthopedic technique that is performed specifically to replace half of the hip joint. This technique is known as hemiarthroplasty. While on the other hand, the technique used to fix the complete hip joint is known as total hip replacement. Let us now talk about hemiarthroplasty in detail.
What is Hemiarthroplasty?
Hemiarthroplasty is an orthopedic surgical procedure in which half of the hip joint is replaced. This type of surgery is often performed to treat hip fractures. In some cases, surgery is also recommended for the treatment of the part of the hip damaged by arthritis.
The hip joint is a “ball-in-socket” joint where the femoral head (ball) fits in the acetabulum (socket) made by pelvic bones. Now, when hemiarthroplasty is performed, the femoral head is replaced with an artificial one. Whereas in the case of total hip replacement surgery, both the ball and socket are replaced.
There are certain conditions in which hemiarthroplasty is necessary to restore healthy hip function. If the femoral head is fractured due to an injury or accident and the socket is intact, then hemiarthroplasty will be the best option for the treatment. Similarly, if serious hip arthritis has damaged the femoral head, then the partial hip replacement will be the best treatment option.
When it comes to total hip replacement, then the decision will be taken by the doctor depending upon certain factors, and they include:
- The health of the patient
- The health of the hip joint
- Physical activity level
- Any ongoing health conditions
How is Hemiarthroplasty Performed?
This surgical procedure is performed under anesthesia. Whether general or local anesthesia is given will be decided by the doctor after consulting the patient and looking for recommendations. In the case of general anesthesia, the patient remains asleep throughout the procedure, whereas if local anesthesia is given, the patient remains awake during the surgery but the hip that needs to be operated on remains numb.
After giving anesthesia, the surgeon will make an incision near the hip on the side of the thigh. This will expose the affected part and the surgeon will remove the ball and replace it with an artificial one. The artificial femoral head contains a stem that is carefully placed inside the femur after creating space. In some cases, a bipolar prosthesis may be used.
Before surgery, the doctor always tries to manage hip arthritis with pain medication and physical therapy, but if these fail to deliver expected results, then surgery is performed.
To get an international standard quality hip prosthesis and other orthopedic implants, contact Siora Surgicals Pvt. Ltd. The company is one of the oldest manufacturers of orthopedic devices in India with a huge clientele base across the globe. Siora is also one of the best Orthopedic Equipment Suppliers in Belgium.
