Hip replacement surgery, also known as total hip arthroplasty, is a procedure that involves removing the damaged ball and socket of the hip joint and replacing them with synthetic materials such as a prosthesis. This treatment is recommended when all other treatments for arthritis-related hip pain have failed to provide adequate relief.

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Dr Kilian specializes in performing total hip replacement surgery to restore mobility and alleviate pain for patients with hip joint problems. If you are considering a hip replacement surgery, the decision should be made after a thorough evaluation and discussion with Dr Kilian. He will provide you with all the relevant information about the procedure, including the expected benefits, potential risks, and alternative treatments. It is important to carefully consider all this information and make an informed choice. Ultimately, the decision to undergo hip replacement surgery will be yours to make.

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During a hip replacement surgery, the damaged hip joint is replaced with an artificial implant called a prosthesis. This involves replacing two components: the ball and the socket.

The first step is to remove the damaged ball of the hip joint and hollow out the inside of the thigh bone so that a metal stem can be inserted. A new highly polished and smooth femoral head ball is then attached to this stem. This ball is typically made of either highly polished chrome and cobalt alloy or highly polished ceramic.

Next, the hip socket is prepared for the new implant by removing the damaged arthritic layer of worn cartilage and bone. A new socket, consisting of a titanium metal shell with highly wear-resistant plastic, is then inserted to replace the hip socket.

There are several options available for the bearing surfaces that make up the moving parts of a hip replacement. The choice of bearing depends on several factors such as durability, level of performance, wear resistance, and personal needs. The bearing is not a single part, but rather the point where the ball and socket of the hip replacement meet. Therefore, the bearing can involve a combination of different materials.

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Minimally Invasive Direct Anterior Approach

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Dr. Kilian is a highly skilled orthopaedic surgeon who specializes in total hip replacements using the minimally invasive direct anterior approach. This approach involves making a small incision at the front of the hip joint, which allows Dr. Kilian to access the joint without having to cut through any muscles or tendons. As a result, there is less damage to the surrounding tissue, and patients typically experience less pain and have a shorter recovery time.

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During the surgery, Dr. Kilian uses a specialized table to position the patient's leg in a way that allows him to access the hip joint from the front. He then makes a small incision, usually only a few inches long, and uses specialized instruments to remove the damaged bone and cartilage from the hip joint. He then inserts a metal or ceramic ball into the socket of the hip joint, and attaches a metal stem to the thighbone to hold the ball in place.

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One of the main advantages of the direct anterior approach is that it allows Dr. Kilian to access the hip joint without having to cut through any major muscles or tendons. This means that there is less damage to the surrounding tissue, which can lead to a faster recovery time and less pain for the patient. It also means that patients can often return to their normal activities more quickly than with traditional hip replacement surgery.

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Overall, Dr. Kilian's expertise in performing total hip replacements using the minimally invasive direct anterior approach has helped many patients achieve significant improvements in their mobility and quality of life. By utilizing this advanced surgical technique, he is able to provide his patients with a minimally invasive, safe, and effective solution for hip pain and disability.