What is Hip Arthroplasty?

Hip arthroplasty is a surgical procedure that involves replacing the damaged surfaces of the hip joint with highly durable and biocompatible implants.

The most common cause of hip pain is arthritis—a condition that leads to the deterioration and destruction of cartilage and bone. Over time, the cartilage that protects the femoral head and its socket in the acetabulum of the pelvis is worn away, causing the bones to rub against each other, which makes even walking painful. When conservative treatment no longer provides symptom relief, hip arthroplasty is indicated for patients suffering from osteoarthritis to the extent that their quality of life is impaired and their daily activities are restricted.

In total hip arthroplasty, the damaged cartilage and underlying bone are removed and replaced with appropriate implants, designed to function like a natural hip joint.

What is Robotic Hip Arthroplasty?

Robotic hip arthroplasty is the evolution of traditional hip replacement surgery. With the latest-generation Mako robotic-assisted system available at HYGEIA Hospital, total hip arthroplasty procedures can be performed with high precision, minimal invasiveness, and results that closely mimic the natural hip. The Mako technology, using a robotic arm, assists the surgeon in performing the arthroplasty with sub-millimeter accuracy during bone preparation and implant placement.

What is the Preoperative Planning Process?

Before surgery, a CT scan of the hip is taken to create a 3D digital model of the patient’s unique anatomy. This virtual model is loaded into the Mako software and used by the orthopedic surgeon to develop a detailed, personalized, 3D preoperative plan (a virtual simulation of the surgery).

What Happens During the Surgery?

Once the bone is prepared to receive the implant, the Mako system guides the surgeon in three dimensions within the pre-planned area and prevents movement outside of the predetermined boundaries (automatically stopping the system if deviation is detected). This ensures precise placement of the implants, correct alignment of the acetabular cup (the socket part of the pelvis that receives the femoral head), and exact restoration of leg length so that no leg length discrepancy remains.

The femoral head is replaced with a metal stem and an artificial ball that fits on top of the stem. A metal cup, lined with durable polyethylene, is placed in the acetabulum. The precise positioning of the new joint using robotic-assisted technology greatly extends the lifespan of the implants.

What Should You Be Careful About Postoperatively?

After surgery, the patient is transferred to their room and, within a few hours, begins mobilizing the hip. In most cases, the patient can bear weight on the leg immediately and walk with or without assistance in less than 24 hours. Hospital stay usually ranges from one (1) to two (2) days, depending on the medical history, clinical condition, and always prioritizing the patient’s safety.

A physiotherapist will assist with mobilization and provide instructions for range-of-motion and strengthening exercises. The time required to return to daily activities varies from person to person and depends on factors such as joint degeneration, chronicity of the issue, weight, age, physical condition, etc.

What Are the Benefits of Robotic Hip Arthroplasty?