Expertise in Hip Resurfacing in the Sacramento Region

Offered by the professionals at Dignity Health, hip resurfacing is surgery to rejuvenate your hip joint, similar to hip replacement. However, hip resurfacing doesn’t remove the ball, or head, of the thigh bone. Instead, your orthopedic surgeon will trim, reshape, and cap it with artificial materials. The new surface makes the joint move easier.

Hip resurfacing is a more common surgery choice than hip replacement for young, active patients with strong bones and a relatively large frame. This procedure preserves more bone at the head, which is known to improve joint stability and reduce the risk of future dislocation.

Your doctor at Dignity Health may recommend hip resurfacing to treat chronic hip pain due to:

  • Osteonecrosis, or death of bone
  • Traumatic arthritis, which is similar to osteoarthritis and develops after a fracture or severe sprain or strain
  • Inflammatory forms of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis
  • Osteoarthritis, which is the breakdown of cartilage and bone
  • Dysplasia, which is when the hip joint doesn’t develop normally, causing the joint to wear out

Learn more about our expertise in hip resurfacing in the Sacramento region and whether it’s the right choice for your hip pain relief. Find a Doctor at Dignity Health today to take the first step, and experience state-of-the-art orthopedic services through personalized treatment.

 

What to Expect from Your Hip Resurfacing with Dignity Health

Hip resurfacing is major surgery that involves a large incision in the thigh and hip. The incision is usually larger than for hip replacement because the surgery is more difficult. You will have general anesthesia, so you are not aware of the surgery and do not feel any pain.

In addition to the general risks of any surgery, possible risks and complications of hip resurfacing include:

  • Wear and tear of the joint requiring a hip replacement
  • Nerve or blood vessel damage
  • Thigh bone fracture
  • Dislocation of the hip joint
  • Formation of new bone along the hip joint causing pain and stiffness

Talk with your doctor about plans to reduce your risks. They will help you understand what your surgery and recovery will look like.

 

Recovering from Hip Resurfacing

You will spend one to four days in the hospital after hip resurfacing. You may also need time in a rehabilitation center before you can safely return home. Full recovery can take 12 weeks. 

Physical therapy will help you regain hip strength and movement, and you will also need to use crutches for several weeks after surgery. Your surgeon or physical therapist will tell you when it is safe to return to your normal activities.

Dignity Health orthopedic experts can advise you in regard to your hip pain and if our hip resurfacing in the Sacramento region is right for you.