Hip replacement is a such a great operation that many patients forget they’ve had it done. This procedure restores movement and quality of life, helping patients enjoy the activities the love.
Over the past few decades, hip replacement procedures have vastly improved. New materials allow the replacements to last 25 to 30 years. Specialized operating tables make it easier for surgeons to reach the hip joint and accurately place the artificial hip.
Anterior Hip Replacement
But the most significant innovation has been the surgical approach to hip replacement. In the past, we entered the hip joint through the back of the hip, cutting through muscles and tendons. Thanks to improvements and new instrumentation, we can enter through the front of the hip, called a Jiffy Hip or anterior hip replacement.
During Jiffy Hips, a much smaller incision is used causing less soft tissue trauma. Instead of cutting muscles and tendons, we move them aside to reach the bone. With all your muscles still intact, you’ll experience less pain and a faster recovery than if you had a more traditional hip replacement. You’ll even have zero precautions after surgery. For instance, you’ll be able to bend over or cross your legs without worrying about injuring your new hip.
When I started performing Jiffy Hips in 2005, only about 1 percent of surgeons in the entire country were using the approach. Now, thanks to amazing patient results, almost 40 percent of surgeons nationwide use this approach to hip replacement.
Navigation Technology
The Jiffy Hip has also benefited from new technologies such as computer navigation. Joint Point computer navigation uses a camera and X-ray images to ensure that each component of the new joint is in exactly the right place. Navigation technology reduce the risk of hip dislocation and helps ensure both legs remain the same length.
New Surgical Tools
Another innovative technology is automation with a battery operated impactor. An impactor is a specialized hammer that provides consistent force. It helps hammer the hip components into place so you can get it precisely into the bone for a tighter, more durable fit.
With all these advancements, it’s no wonder that hip replacements have a high patient satisfaction rate, consistently above 95%. With new implants and new technology, we can help patients enjoy pain-free movement for decades to come.
