Hip replacement: find surgeons and hospital facilities MIS™ Minimally Invasive Solution Mini-Incision for Zimmer Total Hip Replacement

Continuing to enjoy life as we get older is important to everyone. But for those individuals suffering from hip arthritis, giving up a cherished lifestyle often becomes a harsh reality. Even the simplest daily activities that many of us take for granted, like walking or sitting comfortably in a chair, can become a painful struggle.

Hip surgery: hip resurfacing Hip arthritis is a disabling condition that commonly affects patients over the age of 60. In a healthy hip, the movement of bending, straightening or rotating is absorbed by cartilage, allowing the hip ball to move freely in the socket. Over time, the cartilage can wear away or become damaged, causing the bones to rub against each other. This results in symptoms such as thigh pain that radiates to the knee, groin pain, unequal leg lengths, limping, muscle weakness, and stiffness around the hip.

Quick Links
MIS Mini-Incision Procedure Frequently Asked Questions
MIS Mini-Incision Procedure vs. Traditional Surgery
A Patient Story
Candidate Profile
Surgical Procedure

Today, there is a new total hip replacement procedure intended to help make it possible for those suffering from hip arthritis to regain some of their lifestyle. The Mini-incision for Zimmer Total Hip Replacement utilizes an incision 75-100mm in length—approximately one third the length of a traditional incision, which is generally 200-250mm in length.

Total hip replacement surgery involves removing the damaged portion of the hip and replacing it with an artificial implant called a prosthesis. This device is a substitute for, or a supplement to the natural joint, allowing for smooth and frictionless movement.

With the Mini-incision for Zimmer Total Hip Replacement, surgeons use a metal and plastic prosthesis, implanted without cement, to replace the arthritic hip. While individual results can vary, the goal of this procedure is for patients to experience less postoperative pain, a faster recovery period, and a shorter hospital stay. Patients may be able to return to their daily lives within 4-6 weeks, as opposed to the 3-4 month recovery period that is common for a traditional hip surgery.

If you would like more information on the Zimmer MIS Mini-Incision procedure, or to see if you are a candidate, go to Facilities and a surgeon nearest to your area, or speak with your own doctor. Zimmer will help you continue "keeping pace with life."