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Writer's pictureMichael G

Types of Hip Implants - Which is Best for You?

Orthopedic surgeries are effective for treating bone and joint pain and orthopedic injuries. Hip replacement surgery is a surgery with a high success rate. Orthopedic surgery can help patients regain mobility and flexibility.


Whether you’re only exploring your treatment options or have already decided to opt for hip implants, learning about the types of implants is critical. With sufficient information and an expert orthopedic surgeon, you can better understand your condition, hip implant benefits and limitations, and more.


You may need hip implants if you’re suffering from injury or a disease like arthritis. Continue reading this piece to learn about the types of hip implants.



Types of Hip Implants


Hip replacement surgery involves using hip implants to replace a portion of the hip joint (ball and socket). These implants mimic the movement and anatomy of the hip joint. Here are the types of hip implants used in hip replacement surgery.


Ceramic


Ceramic hip implants are used for total hip replacement surgeries. Alumina ceramic is used to make the liner and/ or ball components. These can rub against one another, while the ball can rub against a polyethylene liner. The best thing about ceramic is that it produces the least wear particles. Furthermore, modern medical-grade ceramic is even tougher and resistant to scratches.


Metal-On-Metal


Metal-on-metal hip implants are ideal for total hip replacement. Made with metal, these consist of both cup and ball components. However, direct metal-on-metal implants do not come with a soft cushion. In other words, they do not dampen repeated stresses that usually result from walking. Many patients complain of tension as the legs touch the floor.


Cemented Hybrid


This hip implant relies on a solid mechanical bond between your damaged bone and the cement. A stable interface between the cement and the prosthesis greatly affects how well the hip implant performs inside your body. Cemented fixation is suitable for older adults, rheumatoid arthritis patients, and young children. Your doctor may recommend these hip implants if they find poor bone density.


Cementless


Cementless implants are fixations that directly attach to the damaged bone. When implanted inside your body, a new bone will grow into the implant surface. Since it relies on the growth of a new bone, the cementless fixation procedure takes longer to heal. It is ideal for young and active patients with healthy bone density and strength.


Prosthesis Hybrid Fixation


Hybrid fixation of a prosthesis involves inserting one component (preferably the acetabular socket without cement. Meanwhile, the femoral stem is inserted into the body with the help of cement.


Bottom Line


Hip replacement surgery can help reduce and eliminate chronic hip pain. Not to mention, it is a go-to treatment option for serious hip injuries. Get in touch with an experienced orthopedic surgeon like Dr. Hill to discuss the best hip implant option for your orthopedic needs. For more guidance, book an appointment today.


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