Capital City Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine

Hip Replacement Surgery in Atlanta, GA: Minimally Invasive versus Traditional

Hip Replacement in Atlanta, Georgia

If hip damage and pain inhibit the completion of basic physical activities, a total replacement may be recommended to enable recovery and rehabilitation. This procedure is typically recommended once less invasive methods prove unsuccessful in providing an optimal level of symptom relief. Based on the type and severity of damage injury present, as well as the level of discomfort and disability experienced, Dr. David Fowler will determine whether a total hip replacement should be pursued.

Understanding the Hip: Hip Anatomy

Located at the meeting point of the femur and pelvis, the hip is one of the body's largest and most central weight-bearing joints. Held together by bands of strong ligaments, the hip offers stability and strength in the completion of many basic physical actions, including walking, standing, turning, and climbing. Cartilage and synovial membrane cover the joint's surfaces, providing the lubrication required for smooth, pain-free movements.

If any or all of these hip components suffer damage, a measurable degree of discomfort and/or disability may result. An orthopaedic surgeon will be able to diagnose the extent of deterioration present, and whether multiple issues are contributing to the symptoms observed.

Causes and Symptoms of Damage

While hip damage can stem from a singular event of injury or infection, arthritis is associated with most cases requiring total joint replacement. The three forms resulting in the majority of chronic hip pain and disability are:

• Osteoarthritis (wear-and-tear)
• Rheumatoid arthritis (autoimmune disease)
• Traumatic arthritis (post-injury degeneration)

Though these arthritic forms differ in origin, all can result in significant damage to multiple hip components and are progressive in nature. Pain will likely be present during periods of both activity and rest, with anti-inflammatory and other medications providing little to no relief.

In diagnosing a hip condition and determining the best treatment approach, Dr. Fowler will record a detailed symptom history, as well as document any significant events in pain and disability progression. If a total hip replacement is in order, this information will be used to determine whether a minimally invasive approach will provide the desired relief.

Determining the Best Approach to Treatment

In addition to the creation of a comprehensive medical history, the patient will be guided through the completion of basic strength, flexibility, and alignment tests to assess hip stability and function. An MRI, x-ray, and/or bone scan will likely be used to determine whether any further deformities or issues are present.

Whenever possible, a minimally invasive approach to total hip replacement will be recommended. Frequently reported advantages to a minimally invasive procedure (versus a traditional open surgery) include:

• Shorter hospital stay
• Faster recovery time
• Reduced post-op pain

Factors, including age and overarching health, impact whether the use of a minimally invasive surgery is possible. Individuals who are heavy or muscular, as well as those with other health conditions, may have a higher risk for problems during the healing and recovery process. Prior to undertaking any operation, Dr. Fowler will provide guidance regarding the potential risks and requirements associated with the specific procedure recommended.

Surgery and Recovery

Due to the level of surgical intervention required, as well as the use of general anesthesia, total hip replacement operations are most often performed on an inpatient basis. Whether traditional or minimally invasive in nature, the surgery will likely last 2-3 hours, as damaged joint sections are removed and replaced with prosthetic components.

Surgical cement may be used to join the prosthesis to the joint's remaining bone. In cases of younger or more active patients, stronger bone may be present, which can allow for successful regrowth of natural bone around the prosthesis.

During a minimally invasive hip replacement, smaller incisions will be used than in a traditional hip replacement procedure. Specialized tools will be used to remove bone and cartilage components, as well as to insert the prosthesis. In addition to minimized incisions, other cutting efforts may be reduced through a minimally invasive approach.

Following either operation type, a personalized recovery plan will be prescribed for successful rehabilitation. The stitches or staples used to adhere the incision site will remain in place for approximately 2 weeks, and should be kept covered by a sterile, dry surgical dressing. In addition, the following measures may be recommended for patient use:

• Anti-inflammatory and pain medications
• Crutches, a wheelchair, or other mobility support
• At-home exercises
• Physical therapy

A gradual approach to rebuilding hip strength and flexibility will likely be recommended for the avoidance of re-injury. While the risks associated with minimally invasive hip replacement are minimal, any unexpected symptoms or concerns should be reported to the surgical team immediately.

Leader in Hip Replacement: Dr. David Fowler

Dr. David F. Fowler specializes in the total care of hip joint damage and pain. To schedule an appointment, contact the Atlanta, GA office at (404) 303-8665.