Hip replacement surgery was first performed in 1960. Since then, it has become a common orthopedic procedure with more than 450,000 operations done each year in the United States.
In the past, physicians typically recommended hip replacement for older patients because they tend to be less active and put less stress on the artificial hip compared to younger people. But today, the procedure also may be an option for those who are
younger and more active due to technologically improved implants that can withstand more stress, endure more strain and last longer.
Advances in surgical technology have improved over time as well, including the emergence of minimally invasive, robotic-arm assisted hip replacements that provide detailed 3D images of each patient’s unique anatomy for optimal implant positioning.
Hip Replacement Surgeries
In hip replacement surgery, the surgeon replaces the ball and socket portion of the hip with a combination of metal, ceramic and plastic. Many different types of designs and materials are currently used in artificial hip joints. All of them consist of
two basic components: the ball component (made of a highly polished strong metal or ceramic) and the socket component (usually made of a titanium metal shell with a plastic liner). The metal is usually made from titanium; the plastic from polyethylene.
The artificial joint is usually secured in place by natural bone growing into the metal, or can be cemented into place if the bone is more fragile.
Joint replacement surgeries are performed at DMC Harper University Hospital, DMC Detroit Receiving Hospital, DMC Sinai-Grace Hospital and DMC Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital.
Mako Robot-Assisted Hip Replacement Surgery
The hip replacement specialists at the Detroit Medical Center utilize Mako SmartRobotics™, a minimally invasive, robot-assisted surgical option to perform the procedure. Mako uses 3D CT-based planning software so your surgeon can know more about
your anatomy to create a personalized joint replacement surgical plan.
The Detroit Medical Center has performed thousands of joint replacement surgeries with Mako SmartRobotics™ since 2012.
Potential benefits of Mako SmartRobotics™ when compared to traditional joint replacement surgery may include:
- Preservation of healthy bone and tissue
- Optimal implant positioning resulting in a more natural feeling hip following surgery
- A more rapid recovery
- Less discomfort, swelling and blood loss
- Lower risk of complications
When you hear ‘robotic-arm assisted technology,’ it’s important to understand that the Mako robotic-arm doesn’t actually perform the surgery. Surgery is performed by an orthopedic surgeon, who uses the Mako system software to pre-plan
your surgery, and the robotic arm to help perform the surgery more accurately.
Birmingham Hip Resurfacing - Great Option for Younger Male Patients
The Birmingham Hip Resurfacing™ procedure is an alternative to traditional hip replacement. While a total hip replacement requires the removal of the top of the femur, in hip resurfacing only a few centimeters of bone around the femoral head is
removed. The hip resurfacing implant used is different than the traditional replacement, and is designed to save more normal bone for possible future surgeries. This procedure is typically recommended for male patients with hip arthritis who are less
than 60 years old. It is ideal for younger, active people who may outlive a traditional total hip replacement.
Potential benefits may include the following:
- Preservation of healthy bone – improving results for any future needed surgery
- Ability to resume a very active lifestyle with a very stable hip.
Total Hip Replacement: Anterior Approach
Total hip replacement with anterior approach refers to surgeries done from in front of the hip and is a muscle sparing surgical technique that allows the joint to be replaced by moving muscles aside along their natural tissue planes, without detaching
any tendons. Not all patients may be good candidates for this approach, and specific advantages and disadvantages must be discussed with your surgeon.
The potential advantages of this procedure may include the following:
- Preservation of healthy muscles with no detachment of muscles or tendons.
- Quicker recovery time
- Less pain
Dual Mobility Hip Replacement
Traditional hip replacements will use a ball made of either ceramic or metal as the new ball of the hip joint. In a dual mobility hip replacement – there is a small ball (metal or ceramic) that is placed inside of a larger plastic ball, and this
becomes the new ball of the hip joint. Advantages of this approach may include a more stable hip and improved range of motion.
Revision Hip Replacement
Unfortunately, some hip replacements may need to be re-done, usually because they have worn out after many years. Other hips might need to be re-done due to other complications. Fortunately, DMC orthopedic surgeons specialize in re-doing hip replacements
to restore normal hip movement and reduce pain.
Why Choose DMC for Hip Replacement?
The DMC provides safe and compassionate orthopedic care at 6 hospitals, 13 clinics and over 20 outpatient rehab centers throughout Metro Detroit. We are also proud to be the medical services provider for the Detroit Red Wings and Detroit City FC.
Blue Cross Blue Shield has designated DMC Harper University Hospital as a Blue Distinction Center for knee and hip replacement. Blue Distinction Centers are healthcare facilities and providers recognized for their expertise in delivering specialty care.
DMC has more than 35 operative and non-operative orthopedic and sports medicine physicians on staff who have performed thousands of joint replacement and orthopedic procedures from the simplest to the most complex. DMC hospitals have a total of four robots
and continue to be among the top health systems in Michigan for performing robot-assisted hip and knee joint replacements.
To help treat our patients better, we invest our time in improving our orthopedic knowledge, quality of service and hospital safety. The DMC voluntarily participates in clinical trials and other initiatives that may help improve the success rates of patients.
