Total Hip Replacement, Oxford
The hip joint is a ball-and-socket joint made up of the top of the femur (ball) and the acetabulum (socket) in the pelvis. The ends of each bone are covered with articular cartilage and this allows the bones to glide smoothly. When arthritis wears this cartilage down to bare bone, the results can range from minor stiffness (and sometimes a clicking or catching sensation) to persistent pain and limited range of motion.
When symptoms progress to limiting pain - particularly night pain that disturbs sleep - and stiffness that cannot be controlled with anti-inflammatory medications, as well as undertakingin everyday activities, a total hip replacement (or, in some cases, a hip resurfacing procedure) should be considered to ease pain and allow patients to get back to the activities they enjoy.
Arthritis of the hip is one of the most commonly treated conditions at the Manor Hospital in Oxford and we have now treated many hundreds of patients with the condition.
Depending upon the extent of the damage and the patient's symptoms and age, hip arthritis may be managed either non-surgically or with surgery. The non-surgical approaches that reduce pain and disability include activity modification-giving up those activities that cause pain, anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen and naprosyn, and weight loss. (While some claims have been made for the benefits of medication such as glucosamine and chondroitin supplements, there is no good scientific evidence to support their use.
Surgical treatment options for arthritis of the hip include osteotomy (in which the bone is cut to realign the joint) and, more frequently, total hip arthroplasty (THA) or replacement of the joint.
The decision to undergo a hip replacement is made by the patient in consultation with Mr Whitwell. For some people, the inability to participate in recreational activities that they enjoy prompts thinking about having a joint replacement. Pain--especially night pain--is another strong incentive for surgery.
The availability of excellent surgical techniques and durable materials to replace the arthritic hip joint has made Hip replacement an excellent option for many patients. These developments and the greater interest in participating in sports and recreational activities throughout one's lifetime have meant that patients are often having the procedure at a younger age.
Overall, THA is considered highly safe and effective.
Long term results at the Manor Hospital are excellent. You can view the Manor Hospital's report on the Care Quality Commission website.
Mr Whitwell will discuss with you the specific options available and how they may suit your needs.
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Mr. Whitwell is the chair and convenor of the Oxford Musculoskeletal Oncology Review 2012.>> read more
