Personalised Total Hip Replacement Surgery
A Customised Surgical Approach for Optimised Hip Function and Longevity
Hip replacement surgery has undergone significant evolution since its inception in the 1960s, with ongoing technological advancements contributing to the procedure’s increased safety and effectiveness. A personalised Total Hip Replacement is tailored specifically to your individual needs, lifestyle, and anatomy. By using advanced techniques and the latest technology, Dr Keeley ensures that your hip replacement is as precise and effective as possible.
So, whether you’re experiencing debilitating hip pain or reduced mobility, our goal is to provide you with a customised treatment plan that will help you return to the activities you love with improved comfort and function.
- TECHNIQUES USED TO PERSONALISE YOUR HIP REPLACEMENT
- PERSONALISED TECHNOLOGY AND SURGICAL TOOLS USED IN TOTAL HIP REPLACEMENT SURGERY
- TYPES OF PROSTHETIC IMPLANTS USED IN HIP REPLACEMENT SURGERY
- SIGNS YOU MIGHT NEED A HIP REPLACEMENT
- THE BENEFITS OF TOTAL HIP REPLACEMENT SURGERY
- WALKTHROUGH OF A TOTAL HIP REPLACEMENT SURGICAL PROCEDURE
- WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER TOTAL HIP REPLACEMENT SURGERY
- LIFESTYLE CHANGES AND ACTIVITY GUIDELINES POST-HIP REPLACEMENT
TECHNIQUES USED TO PERSONALISE YOUR HIP REPLACEMENT
Dr Keeley utilises a range of advanced surgical techniques, selecting the approach that best suits your individual needs and the specific demands of your situation:
Posterior Approach Total Hip Replacement: The posterior approach involves accessing the hip from the back (though the incision is made at the side), offering a broader surgical view via a larger incision. It is particularly advantageous for revision surgeries, where the need for greater access to replace existing implants is paramount, a task sometimes not feasible through the anterior approach.
Minimally Invasive Anterior Approach Total Hip Replacement: Dr Keeley frequently opts for this less invasive technique for initial hip replacements, featuring a smaller incision and reduced tissue damage, which may lead to less pain and quicker recovery. This approach, entering from the front of the hip near the groin, avoids cutting through muscle. For some patients, a “bikini” style incision is possible, enhancing cosmetic outcomes, though this is determined on a case-by-case basis.
Dr Keeley’s adept use of both posterior and anterior approaches is guided by a commitment to providing personalised care, with most studies indicating that while patients undergoing anterior approach hip replacements generally experience quicker recoveries and less pain initially, satisfaction levels between the two approaches even out within a year post-surgery, both delivering excellent long-term results.
PERSONALISED TECHNOLOGY AND SURGICAL TOOLS USED IN TOTAL HIP REPLACEMENT SURGERY
Dr Keeley's dedication to the cutting edge of orthopaedic surgery extends to his embrace of the latest innovations in hip replacement technologies:
3D Preoperative Planning Technology: Prior to surgery, your will undergo CT or MRI scanning of your hip, leading to the creation of a 3D reconstruction, tailored to Dr Keeley’s specifications. This model facilitates the production of personalised surgical instruments for use in your operation.
In-Surgery Advanced Imaging and Software: Employing state-of-the-art imaging, computer software, and navigation systems, Dr Keeley achieves unprecedented precision in prosthetic component placement. The use of intraoperative X-Rays further guides the accuracy of the surgical process, underscoring Dr Keeley’s commitment to leveraging technological advancements for optimal patient outcomes.
TYPES OF PROSTHETIC IMPLANTS USED IN HIP REPLACEMENT SURGERY
When it comes to hip replacement surgery, the choice of prosthetic implants is crucial for restoring your hip function and relieving pain. These implants are carefully designed systems made up of several components, including the acetabular component (which replaces the hip socket), the femoral component (which replaces the upper part of your thigh bone), and the articular interface (the surface where these components meet). Each part plays an essential role in ensuring the success of your surgery.
For anterior approach total hip replacements, DrKeeley often uses an M-pact cup with a Quadra-P Collared Stem. The Mpact cup is designed to fit securely within your pelvic bone, providing stability and reducing wear over time, which helps maintain joint health and mobility in the long run.
The Quadra-P Collared Stem, which replaces the upper part of your thigh bone, offers additional stability due to its collar design. This design helps evenly distribute weight and reduces the risk of the implant loosening, enhancing your recovery and contributing to the natural movement of your hip.
In posterior approach total hip replacements, Dr Keeley frequently opts for the Mpact 3D Metal Monocer cup, combined with the Quadra-P Collared Stem. This combination is specifically designed to provide a secure and long-lasting joint replacement, ensuring stability and durability. Alternatively, he may use the G7 Acetabular Cup System with a CORAIL Stem, which offers a versatile and reliable fit tailored to your specific anatomy.
All of these implant options have a strong track record of durability and long-term performance, helping you regain mobility and significantly enhancing your quality of life. Dr Keeley will work with you to determine the most suitable option, aiming for the best possible outcome in your hip replacement surgery.
SIGNS YOU MIGHT NEED A HIP REPLACEMENT
If you're experiencing severe hip pain and limited mobility, it might be time to consider a total hip replacement.
Various conditions can lead to the need for this procedure, including:
This is the most common reason for hip replacements. Osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage in your hip joint wears down over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving.
This chronic inflammatory condition can cause significant joint damage, resulting in severe hip pain and dysfunction that might make a hip replacement necessary.
This condition involves a loss of blood supply to the hip joint, leading to bone deterioration. A hip replacement may be needed to relieve pain and restore proper function.
If you’ve suffered a hip fracture, especially as an older adult, a hip replacement might be recommended to repair the joint and help you regain mobility.
If you were born with hip joint abnormalities, you might experience pain and instability over time. When other treatments aren’t effective, a hip replacement could be considered.
Severe hip injuries or trauma can lead to long-term joint damage and arthritis. If conservative treatments don’t provide relief, a hip replacement might be the next step.
There are other conditions that might lead to the need for a hip replacement, such as certain bone tumours, hip joint infections, and systemic diseases that affect the joints.
THE BENEFITS OF TOTAL HIP REPLACEMENT SURGERY
Reduction in Hip Pain and Discomfort: Many patients experience significant relief from hip pain following the procedure.
Improved Joint Mobility and Range of Motion: The surgery may help restore better movement in the hip joint.
Enhanced Quality of Life: Patients often find that they can perform daily activities with greater ease.
Restoration of Independence and Functionality: Hip replacement may help you regain your ability to move independently.
Long-Term Durability: The implants used in hip replacement are designed to last, contributing to long-term success for many patients.
WALKTHROUGH OF A TOTAL HIP REPLACEMENT SURGICAL PROCEDURE
Surgery is performed under general anaesthesia, meaning you will be asleep and pain-free during the procedure. In some cases, regional anaesthesia may be used, which numbs the lower half of your body.
Dr Keeley is skilled in both the posterior and anterior hip replacement approaches and the choice of approach used depends on your unique anatomy and specific medical needs.
The posterior approach involves accessing your hip joint from the back, while the anterior approach involves accessing your hip joint from the front, often resulting in less muscle disruption.
Dr Keeley will remove the damaged bone and cartilage from your hip joint. This includes removing the femoral head (the ball of the joint) and the damaged cartilage from the acetabulum (the socket of the joint).
The next step involves replacing the removed bone and cartilage with the prosthetic components. The acetabular component (a metal or plastic cup) is placed in the socket, and the femoral component (a metal stem with a ball on top) is inserted into the thigh bone. These components are designed to replicate the natural movement of your hip joint.
Dr Keeley incorporates advanced navigation tools intra-operatively to assist in accurately positioning and aligning the implants. Patient-specific instrumentation, like MyHip, may also be used to customise the procedure to your individual anatomy. A verifier tool may also be employed to confirm the proper fit and positioning of the implants, ensuring optimal stability and functionality of the new joint.
After the implants are securely in place, the incision is closed with sutures or staples. A dressing is applied, and you will be taken to the recovery area where your vital signs will be monitored as you wake up from anaesthesia.
Most patients stay in the hospital for 2-4 days following hip replacement surgery. During this time, you will begin physiotherapy to start moving your new hip joint. Your recovery plan will be tailored to your specific needs, and your hospital stay may vary depending on your overall health and progress.
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER TOTAL HIP REPLACEMENT SURGERY
After total hip replacement surgery, patients will typically spend a few days in the hospital before being discharged home. Pain management will be an important part of the recovery process, and Dr Keeley will work with you to develop a personalised pain management plan. This may involve a combination of pain medications, including oral medications and, if necessary, localised pain relief techniques to ensure your comfort during the healing process.
Rehabilitation and physiotherapy play a vital role in your recovery. The physiotherapists in the hospital will guide you through personalised exercises and mobility training to gradually regain strength, range of motion, and function in your new hip joint.
Most people make a good recovery and return to normal activities within 6 weeks of their procedure however, it can take 6 – 12 months to fully recover the use of your hip.
LIFESTYLE CHANGES AND ACTIVITY GUIDELINES POST-HIP REPLACEMENT
After undergoing total hip replacement surgery, it's essential to make certain lifestyle changes and adhere to activity guidelines to promote healing, prevent complications, and optimise long-term outcomes.
ACTIVITY GUIDELINES
- Initially, you may be advised to use walking aids like crutches or a walker to minimise weight on the operated hip.
- Perform gentle range-of-motion exercises prescribed by your physiotherapist to improve flexibility and prevent stiffness.
- Avoid high-impact activities such as running, jumping, or lifting heavy weights.
- Gradually increase your activity level as tolerated and avoid pushing yourself too hard.
- Continue with prescribed rehabilitation exercises to strengthen the muscles around the hip joint.
- Begin incorporating low-impact exercises like swimming, stationary biking, or walking for longer durations.
- Gradually transition from using walking aids to walking independently, based on Dr Keeley’s guidance.
- Avoid activities that involve twisting or pivoting on the operated leg.
- Focus on maintaining an active lifestyle with regular exercise to improve overall strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health.
- Engage in activities that are gentle on the joints, such as yoga, tai chi, or low-impact aerobics.
- Incorporate strength training exercises to further build muscle strength and support the hip joint.
- Listen to your body and avoid activities that cause pain or discomfort in the hip area.
- Follow-up with Dr Keeley periodically for evaluation and monitoring of your hip replacement.
LIFESTYLE CHANGES
Maintaining a healthy weight reduces stress on the hip joint and can help prolong the lifespan of the prosthesis. Follow a balanced diet and incorporate regular physical activity into your routine to manage weight effectively.
Make necessary adjustments to your home environment to ensure a safe and comfortable recovery. This may include installing handrails, raised toilet seats, or shower chairs to reduce the risk of falls.
Choose supportive footwear with good arch support and cushioning to provide stability and minimize strain on the hip joint.
Smoking can impair healing and increase the risk of complications following surgery. If you smoke, consider quitting or reducing your tobacco use to support the healing process.
Attend scheduled follow-up appointments with Dr Keeley and your physiotherapist to track your progress, address any concerns, and receive guidance on long-term management.
The combination of pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility can have a significant impact on a person’s overall quality of life, affecting their ability to work, perform household tasks, and participate in social or leisure activities.
By adhering to these activity guidelines and making appropriate lifestyle changes, you can promote a successful recovery and enjoy the benefits of improved mobility and function following total hip replacement surgery.