Hip replacement: find surgeons and hospital facilities Am I a candidate for the Mini-incision hip replacement procedure?

The decision to have the MIS Mini-Incision procedure is up to you and your orthopaedic surgeon. Benefits, such as a smaller incision size, may vary based on weight and other factors. You doctor will consider a number of factors, including:

  • Medical history
  • Weight
  • Health status
  • Anatomical structure, including bone structure and extend and pattern of arthritis.

Symptoms

Your doctor can help you determine if you are a candidate for the Zimmer MIS Mini-Incision procedure. Hip replacement is considered when:

  • Joint damage is visible on x-ray
  • Episodes of pain, swelling, and stiffness in the hip are prevalent
  • Persistent pain and disability interfere with daily life activities
  • Mobility is extremely limited
  • Nonsurgical interventions, such as medication, physical therapy, and the help of a cane or other walking aid, are unsuccessful

Benefits

  • The Mini-Incision hip replacement offers significant potential advantages over traditional hip replacement:
  • Smaller incision and scar--one incision as small as 60mm to 90mm in length, rather than the standard 250mm to 300mm incision
  • Shortened hospital stay--possibly three days versus four and a half or more.
  • Faster rehabilitation

These benefits may allow a quicker return to work and daily activities.

To diagnose your condition, an orthopaedic surgeon will perform a thorough examination of your hip, analyse x-rays, and conduct physical tests. You will be asked to describe your pain, if you suffer from other joint pain, and if you have endured past injuries that may have affected your current hip condition.
Your joints will then be tested for strength and range of motion through a series of activities, which include bending and walking. X-rays of your hip joint will indicate any change in size, shape or unusual circumstances.

Based on your examination, your surgeon will determine whether you are a candidate for the Mini-incision hip procedure. While total hip replacement is a proven option to alleviate hip arthritis pain, your surgeon may also advise you on non-operative treatment options including anti-inflammatory medications or injections, physical therapy, or a cane to aid in walking.

The final decision to undergo the Mini-incision procedure for total hip replacement is ultimately yours, in consultation with your doctor. As with any surgery, there are risks involved. Some complications during and after surgery can include infections, blood clots, pneumonia, dislocation, prosthesis loosening, and nerve damage.

Orthopaedic surgeons who perform the MIS Mini-Incision hip replacement must complete comprehensive training via the Zimmer Institute.

If you would like more information on the Zimmer Mini-incision for Total Hip Replacement, or to see if you are a candidate, click on Facilities and Surgeon Locator to find the surgeon nearest to your area, or speak with your own GP.

Don’t let hip pain slow you down. Zimmer will help you continue “Keeping pace with life.”