Spire Little Aston Hospital boasts a team of highly skilled orthopaedic consultant surgeons, trained nursing staff, consultant radiologists and physiotherapists. Our Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeons would be happy to see you for an initial consultation for hip resurfacing.
For more information or prices please call 0121 580 7119 or email cservice-la@spirehealthcare.com
What’s involved in hip resurfacing?
Hip resurfacing surgery is an alternative to total hip replacement surgery. During resurfacing, the surfaces of the two bones that form the hip joint (the top of the thigh bone or femur, and the pelvis) are replaced with metal components.
The operation is usually done under general anaesthesia, which means that you will be asleep during the operation. However, for some patients, epidural or spinal anaesthesia is preferable. This completely blocks the feeling in your legs but you stay awake. Your surgeon and anaesthetist will discuss with you which type of anaesthesia is most suitable in your case.
You will be in hospital until you are able to walk safely with the aid of sticks or crutches. This will probably be three to five days after your operation.
The metal components used for resurfacing will usually last at least ten years, after which they may need to be replaced. Your surgeon will explain the benefits and risks of hip resurfacing surgery.
About the hip resurfacing operation
During hip resurfacing surgery, a single cut (usually 15 to 30cm long) is made along the hip and thigh. When the joint has been resurfaced, the cut is closed with stitches or clips. The operation usually takes up to two hours.
Following your operation, a physiotherapist will visit you every day to guide you through exercises to help you recover. You will be encouraged to move your new hip from the first day.
After surgery, your hip is likely to be sore for several weeks. You may feel some temporary pain and swelling in the knee and you may have a swollen ankle for up to three months.
Your bowels may take a while to return to normal. You may also have difficulty passing urine on the first day or so. A catheter (a thin tube) may be inserted into the bladder to help urine flow.
Hip resurfacing is generally a safe surgical procedure. For most people, the benefits in terms of improved mobility and less discomfort are greater than the disadvantages. However, all surgery carries an element of risk, which your surgeon will explain to you.
The operation usually takes up to two hours and involves a hospital stay of three to five nights.
Is hip resurfacing available on the NHS?
Hip resurfacing is currently being restricted by the NHS in some areas of the UK and waiting lists are becoming significantly longer. For these reasons many people opt for private treatment.
Why should I consider having a hip resurfacing operation at a Spire hospital?
Whether you have medical insurance or are paying for your treatment yourself, with Spire Healthcare you will be seen quickly by the consultant-grade surgeon of your choice at a time that suits you. You will be treated in a premium private hospital with some of the UK's highest standards of cleanliness and infection control. What’s more, you’ll be able to recuperate in your own private room with friends and family able to visit when you wish.
To find out more about having a hip resurfacing operation privately or to get a guide price, simply
