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Frequently Asked Questions
Since the BIRMINGHAM HIP Resurfacing implant is new in
the United States, is it clinically proven?
While the BIRMINGHAM HIP
Resurfacing implant is new to the United States, it is not a new implant or
technique. It has been in use worldwide since 1997, and the US Food and Drug
Administration reviewed a tremendous amount of resulting clinical data before
approving it for use in this country.
Who is a candidate for the BIRMINGHAM HIP Resurfacing
System?
The typical patient will be physically active, under 60 years
of age, and suffering from hip arthritis, hip dysplasia or avascular necrosis of
the hip. The implant can be used in patients over 60 whose bone quality is
strong enough to support the implant. Your surgeon will make the determination
if you are a candidate for hip resurfacing.
How long will the BIRMINGHAM HIP Resurfacing implant
last?
It is impossible to say how long your implant will last because
so many factors play into the lifespan of an implant. In the case of
resurfacing, for instance, the metal-on-metal bearing surfaces of your new joint
may extend its life longer than that of a traditional total hip replacement, but
failure to comply with your physical rehabilitation regime may cause your
implant to fail within months. A clinical study showed the BIRMINGHAM HIP
Resurfacing implant had a survivorship of 98.4-percent at the five-year mark,
which is comparable with the survivorship of a traditional total hip replacement
in the under-60 age group.
How long will my scar be?
Your surgeon will use
an incision of between six and eight inches in length. While some surgeons may
use a slightly smaller incision, most will fall in that range.
What are my physical limitations after surgery?
Most surgeons will tell you that after the first year, you can return to
whatever physical activity you enjoyed before hip pain limited your mobility.
For instance, unlike total hip replacement, you will be able to return to
jogging or singles tennis after your first year after surgery. During your first
year, more conservative, low-impact activities like walking, swimming and
bicycling are recommended for strengthening your femoral neck and the muscles
around your resurfaced joint. How can I receive more
information about hip resurfacing and the BIRMINGHAM HIP implant?
Ask
your surgeon for BIRMINGHAM HIP Resurfacing System patient information, or visit
www.BirminghamHipResurfacing.com.
*Trademark of Smith & Nephew.
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