About the Hip Total Hip Replacement Minimally Invasive Total Hip Replacement Metal on Metal Hip Replacement Ceramic Hip Replacement Surface Arthroplasty Computer Navigation Anterior Hip Approach

This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the expert guidance of your orthopedic surgeon. Any questions or concerns you may have should be directed to your orthopedic surgeon. One of the most talked about orthopedic advancements is minimally invasive joint replacement, also called mini-incision joint replacement. Traditional total hip replacements typically require an incision between eight and ten inches long. The patient's size and the extent of the joint's damage can sometimes determine the length of the incision. Minimally invasive total hip replacement may be performed through a shorter incision, potentially one-half to one-third the length of a typical hip replacement incision. Surgeons can perform surgery through such a short incision because they use instruments specifically designed to move around soft tissue. It is important to remember that minimally invasive joint replacement is a technique, not an implant. The technique allows a surgeon to lengthen the incision should it become necessary during surgery. Surgeons still use the technologically advanced implants that they feel will best treat your specific condition.