Mini Incision Hip Replacement Download video of Dr. Nasar describing advances in joint replacement surgery Video 6.6 MB 7:23 min Traditionally, hip replacement surgery involved large incisions, significant blood loss requiring transfusions, and extended hospitalization stays and extensive rehabilitation. Patients did well with surgery; however, they experienced significant pain and limitation of activity for the first 3 months after surgery. With the advent of mini-incision or minimally-invasive hip surgery combined with new techniques in pain management and anesthesia, hip replacement surgery has become a more pleasant experience. The advantages of mini-incison hip replacement are: Smaller incision approximately 4” versus 10” for non-obese patients, more cosmetic Preservation of the piriformis tendon and Capsular Noose Capsular Repair – violates less muscle and minimizes dislocation risk Shorter hospital stays (2-4 days vs. 1 week) Shorter recovery and return to usual activities in 4-6 weeks Less blood loss and need for transfusions Lower rates of complications such as blood clots, pneumonia, infection, and dislocation Less pain and less need for pain medications Mini incision hip replacement offers all of the advantages of traditional hip replacement surgery while providing for faster recovery and minimizing complications. This leads to very high rates of patient satisfaction. The posterior mini-incision technique causes less muscle damage than other techniques and provides good visualization of the femur and socket. Because of this, there are no additional risks with this procedure. Materials for hip replacement Implants:  Porous titanium allows bone to grow into the implant; once bone bonds with the titanium surface it will never loosen. No use of bone cement which tends to fragment and crack over time and can cause serious complications at the time of surgery when the cement is pressurized. Bearing surfaces: Metal on metal provides the largest surfaces available which maximizes range of motion and is also highly durable and expected to last a lifetime. Other option is ceramic-on-ceramic which is the hardest surface available and generates the least wear. Navigation for hip replacement Ensures accuracy in positioning of implants and achieving correction of leg lengths.