Hip Resurfacing

If you may need a Hip Resurfacing, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.

What is a Hip Resurfacing?

Hip resurfacing replaces damaged surfaces of the hip joint while preserving most of the femoral head and neck. During the procedure, an orthopedic surgeon removes worn cartilage, reshapes the femoral head, places a metal cap over the bone, and adds a metal socket liner within the pelvis. The operation treats severe hip arthritis and aims to reduce pain while maintaining more natural bone structure than total hip replacement.

Surgeons perform hip resurfacing by creating a smooth metal bearing surface between the capped femoral head and the lined socket. The approach removes less bone from the thigh bone than total hip replacement, which allows many active patients to keep more of their original hip structure. Surgeons typically consider the procedure for younger, healthy patients with strong bone quality who need relief from advanced joint damage.

Causes of Hip Resurfacing

Hip resurfacing treats damage within the hip joint that causes severe pain, stiffness, and limited movement. Doctors recommend the procedure when conditions wear down the cartilage, damage the joint surfaces, or prevent patients from completing daily activities comfortably. Common causes that lead patients toward hip resurfacing include:

Osteoarthritis: Wear and tear from aging or repeated stress breaks down hip cartilage and creates pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune condition attacks the joint lining, causing inflammation, cartilage damage, and progressive hip discomfort.
Hip injuries: Fractures, trauma, or previous damage can harm the joint surface and contribute to long-term pain and reduced function.
Avascular necrosis: Loss of blood supply to the femoral head causes bone tissue damage and weakens the hip joint.
Developmental hip conditions: Abnormal hip formation can create uneven joint stress and accelerate cartilage breakdown.
High-impact activity or heavy physical demands: Repetitive stress from intense activities can contribute to joint deterioration and increase hip pain over time.

Benefits of Hip Resurfacing

Hip resurfacing provides several benefits for patients with severe hip arthritis, including pain relief, improved movement, and preservation of more natural bone. The procedure removes damaged cartilage from the hip joint and places a metal cap over the femoral head while keeping the femoral neck intact. This bone-conserving approach allows surgeons to maintain more of the patient’s original hip structure compared with total hip replacement. Many patients regain mobility, perform daily activities with greater comfort, and return to physical activities after completing recovery and rehabilitation.

Hip resurfacing also supports active lifestyles for carefully selected patients with strong bone quality and high physical demands. The procedure uses a larger bearing surface that helps provide stability and allows many patients to participate in activities that involve strength and endurance. By removing less bone from the thigh bone, hip resurfacing preserves future treatment options if additional procedures become necessary. Patients often experience reduced joint pain, improved range of motion, and increased confidence during movement after successful recovery.

Recovery from Hip Resurfacing

Recovery from hip resurfacing requires patients to follow a structured rehabilitation plan that focuses on restoring strength, flexibility, and mobility. Physical therapists guide patients through exercises that improve hip function, balance, and movement while protecting the healing joint. Patients often use assistive devices, such as crutches or walkers, during the early stages and gradually increase activity as their strength improves. Consistent exercise, proper wound care, and regular follow-up appointments help patients support healing and return to daily activities. Many patients resume normal routines within several months, while full recovery depends on individual health, activity levels, and adherence to rehabilitation instructions.

If you would like to speak to a Texas-Based Orthopedic Specialist, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us online. Telemedicine appointments are also available.