Ceramic Hip Resurfacing
The way of the future for some?
Ceramic Hip Resurfacing is a new hip procedure designed to reduce complications that are often associated with traditional metal on metal techniques. I have been fortunate to work closely with Matortho, the company that produces the ceramic-on-ceramic implant and given an opportunity to introduce this
method to a small range of my suitable patients.
What is Hip Resurfacing
Hip Resurfacing is a procedure used for the managing of hip osteoarthritis and is an
alternative to a conventional Total Hip Replacement. A resurfacing involves placing a new surface on the existing ball and socket. Any damaged bone or cartilage within the socket is removed, and covered with a smooth, metal ‘cap’ over both the head of your femur, (the top of your leg bone), and your pelvis socket.
Unlike hip replacements traditional hip resurfacing is not suitable for everyone, but if it is an option, it can potentially deliver several benefits over a full replacement. Most metal hip resurfacing devices are used in younger and highly active male patients.
What is Ceramic Hip Resurfacing
Ceramic Hip Resurfacing is when the implant is manufactured from ceramic rather than metal. The ceramic implant is named ReCerf and is manufactured by MatOrtho and is similar to their metal hip resurfacing implant Adept, the only difference being the
material used for manufacturing. The method, surgical procedure and recovery process are near identical, as are the operative techniques and surgical instruments.
Why consider the option of Ceramic Hip Resurfacing
Metal hip resurfacing is known for its excellent outcomes; however, they are not suitable for all people, especially those with smaller hip joints who do not meet the strict criteria required for their use. This is often the case with female hip joints as they are too small for the metal hip resurfacing implants and allergic reactions to the metals are observed at higher rates.
For those who are unsuitable for metal hip resurfacing but would benefit from a bone preserving implant design, ceramic hip resurfacing is an alternative.
Metal hip surfacing devices at times may cause cobalt related metal allergy reactions for selected patients and occur at a rate of approximately 0.5% with traditional devices. Ceramic hip resurfacing will not cause these reactions. For those at a much higher risk of metal allergy reactions it is worth considering ceramic resurfacing technology as an option. If you meet the criteria for metal hip resurfacing, these will likely be recommended as the outcomes are proven and are accompanied by a positive track record and successful outcomes.
What are the alternatives to Ceramic Hip Resurfacing
The alternatives to ceramic hip resurfacing are total hip replacement. Each of these have their individual benefits and risks. Your suitability for these options will be evaluated and discussed with me at your initial consultation.
What are the disadvantages of Ceramic Hip Resurfacing
Due to ceramic hip resurfacing being introduced quite recently, long-term clinical
outcomes are yet to be concluded and documented. The ceramic material used for
manufacturing the actual implant has been used extensively over many years in
conventional Total Hip Replacement applications and has demonstrated exceptional
results in wear and impact resistance, however ceramic material for hip resurfacing is yet to be proven.
Over 1,000 ceramic hips have been implanted worldwide since 2018, and to date the results are promising. The National Joint Replacement Registry (NJRR) data in Australia suggests that the ReCerf at 3 years survivorship is slightly better than its counter parts at the same time point which is encouraging.
Further information
If you are GP and would like to know more about Ceramic Hip Resurfacing, I welcome any enquiries that you might have and encourage you to get in touch so that we can
discuss the technique in further detail.
Please contact my Sportsmed Practice Manager Meredith Hutchins on
(08) 8362 7788 or email her at sprigginsadmin@sportsmed.com.au