Hip arthritis is a common affliction among patients over the age of 60 and is becoming more common in younger patients. It can progress into a disabling condition limiting one's ability to carry out normal activities of daily living or recreation. In some cases, a total hip replacement is needed, which replaces the arthritic hip joint with an artificial ”ball-in-socket” joint.

The new minimally invasive total hip replacement allows a return to normal activity in half the time of traditional total hip replacement surgery. Developed in part by Dr. Todd Swanson, M.D. of Desert Orthopaedic Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, this technique has been shown to have many advantages over traditional total hip replacement surgery.

The minimally invasive total hip, using a titanium prosthesis implanted without cement, replaces the arthritic hip through an incision one-third the length of a traditional incision. This, combined with immediate full weight bearing, results in a more rapid recovery. The traditional total hip replacement requires an incision measuring 8-10 inches in length, 6 weeks on crutches or walker, and 3 months total recovery time. With the mini-hip procedure, hospital stays are shortened by 2-4 days and patients generally return to normal activities by 4-6 weeks.

Dr. Swanson's research has shown that the new surgical technique minimizes the amount of anesthesia required and reduces blood loss and postoperative pain. It minimizes the risk of complications, particularly “non-orthopaedic” complications such as heart or lung problems. Additionally, many total hip replacements require the use of bone cement. Several studies have suggested that bone cement may increase the risk of blood clots, breathing problems, and even death. Minimally invasive total hip replacement minimizes complications by minimizing the amount of surgery required and avoiding the use of bone cement.

Photo Comparison: Traditional Hip Replacement Incision Photos vs. Mini Hip Replacement Incision Photos

Disclaimer:The information provided here is intended to educate the reader about certain medical conditions and certain possible treatment. It is not a substitute for examination, diagnosis, and medical care provided by a licensed and qualified health professional. If you believe you, your child, or someone you know, suffer from the conditions described herein, please see your health care provider immediately. Do not attempt to treat yourself, your child or anyone else without proper medical supervision.

©2008 Todd Swanson, M.D.
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The minimally invasive total hip replacement was developed by Dr. Swanson after being introduced to the concept in early 1997. Dr. Swanson began using the technique in May of 1997 and has continued to make improvements that now allow reliable surgery and reproducibly good results in most patients. Standardization of the technique has allowed teaching to other surgeons. Numerous physicians and orthopedic companies have shown interest in promoting “minimally invasive surgery” for total hip replacements.

The minimally invasive technique utilizes a 3-4 inch incision, much smaller than the 8-10 inch approach historically used for hip replacement. Patients require less anesthesia and pain medication, and mobilize more quickly. This results in both quicker recovery for the patient and a lower incidence of complications.

Patients typically recover from minimally invasive surgery in about half the time it takes to recover from standard incision surgery (6 weeks vs. 12 weeks).

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