Dual Pivot Hip
Jan,13,2012 16:39 Filed in: Hip Replacement | Total Hip Replacement
I’ve mentioned metal on metal hips a few times in past posts, and as many people are aware, there has been a great deal of concern about the long term effects of this type of hip. While I am convinced that only a few of these designs are a problem, it’s important to understand the benefits and if there are any other ways to achieve the same results. Recently, we have had great success using a dual pivot design for hip replacement. This design provides all the benefits of metal on metal - the large head and wear resistance - without an actual metal on metal surface. The dual pivot design employs a smaller ceramic head, embedded into a large plastic head that is placed into the same socket we used for metal on metal. The plastic is very thick and wear resistant and the dual pivoting surfaces should result in less wear over time.
For younger patients who have concerns about metal on metal and need the range of motion and durability, I think this represents a great option.
For younger patients who have concerns about metal on metal and need the range of motion and durability, I think this represents a great option.
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Anterior Hip Replacement
Our anterior hip project continues to progress well. We are able to perform the hip replacement without using special tables or x-ray machines, which makes it quicker and easier to set up. There is also less uncertainty about the placement of the components when I can see them directly. Patients appear to have little to no pain, although, I'll have to collect more data to know for sure. Certainly, they are recovering their function and ability to walk very rapidly.
Tapered Titanium Stems
Mar,15,2008 08:41 Filed in: Hip | Hip Replacement
We've been using tapered titanium stems for total hip replacements for many years now. They fit into the thigh bone and require no cement. The bone grows into the roughened surface plasma sprayed onto the titanium to make the new part literally part of the natural bone. I recently wrote a short monograph, along with some other well know physicians, that was published in one of the orthopaedic trade journals. If you would like some more information, here is the link. My article is on pages 7-8.