Keeping Updated On Hip Surgery

As Physio’s we are always assessing and diagnosing from ‘the outside’ using our observation of movement and hands on approach, however it’s always great to get into theatre to see ‘inside’ the body watching surgeons in action!  Technology and research continually evolve and surgeons are continuing to develop their techniques for assessment and repair of damaged joints and soft tissue with small scars and minimal trauma.

Arthroscopic surgery is common these days – meaning surgeons insert a small camera into an incision to assess for damage, and repair damaged structures using small surgical tools. There are many advantages to this surgical approach, as the joint does not need to be as open and exposed which reduces the risk of infection, reduces recovery time, and reduces the extent of damage to the soft tissue and other structures in that region.  This style of surgery is more and more commonly used with great outcomes, including knee surgery for repairing meniscal tears or ligament damage such as the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), and shoulder surgery for repairing the labrum or rotator cuff. This requires great skill by the surgeon as there is little space to move and manoeuvre within the joint.

Another new surgical technique Emma found fascinating was the Anterior Hip Replacement approach.   This means surgeons make a small incision towards the front of the hip and create a space between the muscles to reach the joint, rather than having to cut through large important muscle groups. This technique results in faster recovery times because there is significantly less soft tissue damage, and reduces the chance of dislocation, which is always a small risk after hip replacement surgery.

Watching surgery isn’t for the faint hearted, but it is such a fascinating and interesting experience as we are reminded of how amazingly complex the body really is!

 

 

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