Hip Resurfacing

For the young, active patient with advanced hip disease, hip resurfacing can be an alternate treatment to total hip replacement. The procedure holds great promise since it often permits a return to normal life activities.   Dr. Burnikel performed the first FDA-approved Birmingham Hip Resurfacing™  in South Carolina and was among the first fifty in the US.

Since the head of the femur is preserved, hip resurfacing conserves more of the bone. This is largely due to the fact that instead of removing the head completely, it is shaped to accept an anatomically sized metal sphere. And there is no large stem to go down the central part of the femur. Also, the surface of the socket, acetabulum, is resurfaced and replaced with a metal shell that is pressed directly into the bone.

The hip resurfacing implant, such as the BIRMINGHAM HIP* Resurfacing System implant, is made of two parts working together to restore the original function of the ball-and-socket joint. These two parts consist of a metal mushroom-like cap, which is inserted over the top of the resurfaced femoral head, and a metal cup that is pressed into the socket. The bone then grows into the socket adding increased stability.

Hip resurfacing is intended for young, active adults who are under 60 years of age and in need of a hip replacement. There are certain causes of hip arthritis that result in extreme deformity of either the head of the femur or the acetabulum. These cases are usually not candidates for hip resurfacing.Regular consideration of hip resurfacing is given to those under the age of 60, while those over 60 who are living non-sedentary lifestyles may also be considered for this procedure. However, this can only be further determined by a review of your bone quality