At a Hip prosthesis it is an artificial hip joint. It serves as a replacement for a worn joint.
What is a hip prosthesis?
A hip prosthesis is also called Total hip endoprosthesis (TEP) or artificial hip joint designated. It is one of the implants and is used when the original hip joint is worn out. In Germany, around 200,000 people receive a hip prosthesis every year.
The use of an artificial hip joint may be necessary if the original joint is so worn that it causes the affected person constant pain. These can no longer be remedied by conservative treatments, which is why only surgical replacement of the joint can remedy this. The most common reason for using a hip prosthesis is hip arthrosis.
Shapes, types & types
A distinction is made between several types of hip prostheses. There are hip stem prostheses, femoral head prostheses, hip cap prostheses and total hip endoprostheses. A femoral head prosthesis is given to elderly people who have a fracture of the lower leg neck and for whom lengthy surgery is not advisable for health reasons. This type of artificial hip joint is only used to replace the broken femoral head. In contrast, no changes are made to the acetabulum. However, a femoral head prosthesis has the disadvantage of possible injuries to the joint socket due to severe impairments.
Another form is the hip stem prosthesis. With this type, the femoral neck is replaced. A stalk in the thigh bone is also used as an anchorage. The modern variants include the cementless short-shaft prostheses, which primarily include the femoral neck.
A hip cap prosthesis is an artificial hip joint in which only the surface joint parts are removed. A metal endoprosthesis serves as a replacement. The femoral head and femoral neck can be completely retained in this shape. A hip cap prosthesis is useful for women up to 60 and men up to 65 years.
If the hip joint is completely replaced, it is called a total hip endoprosthesis. It is composed of a ball head, the acetabulum and the hip stem. The surgeon places the ball head on the hip shaft, which in turn is implanted in the femur. The acetabulum is implanted on the pelvis.
Structure & functionality
The materials that are used for the prosthesis are important for the function of the artificial hip joint. This is how the artificial joint meets the natural bones. The materials must ensure a painless sequence of movements. At the same time it is important that the exogenous substances are tolerated in the long term.
The hip prosthesis has the task of mimicking the function of a natural hip joint. Depending on the shape of the hip prosthesis, the implant consists of up to four components. These include the acetabular cup component, which is anchored in the pelvis, as well as the hip prosthesis shaft that the surgeon attaches to the thigh bone. Another component is the femoral head component. With a hip cap prosthesis, this is implanted on the bone of the femoral head, which is still preserved. If it is a hip prosthesis socket, it is put on as a ball head. The fourth component is a plastic inlay. This rests on the acetabular component and ensures that the femoral head component glides.
So that the hip prosthesis can fulfill its functions, it is necessary to connect the respective components to the hip bone. There are basically three options for anchoring the artificial hip joint. These are the cementless hip prosthesis, the cemented total hip endoprosthesis and the hybrid prosthesis. With a cement-free hip prosthesis, the prosthesis shaft and the artificial hip socket are screwed to the bone. Over time, the hip bone can grow together with the surface of the prosthesis, resulting in a stable unit.
In the case of a cemented hip replacement, the surgeon uses a special cement that hardens quickly. The joint socket and shaft are cemented, creating a connection between the bone and the prosthesis. The hybrid prosthesis is a mixture of cemented and cementless hip prostheses. The joint socket of the prosthesis is attached without cement, while bone cement is used for the shaft.
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The use of an artificial hip joint has some advantages, provided that the operation is successful and the patient works well with the doctors during the follow-up treatment.
The primary health benefit of a hip prosthesis is a significant improvement in pain. In some cases, complete freedom from pain is even possible. Since the functions of the hip joint improve again, this has a positive effect on the patient's quality of life. In this way, the patient can move around better again, walk longer and even go hiking and cycling. It is also easier to use cars or public transport again. It is also easier to put on clothing and take care of your body. For example, the patient can put his shoes back on better or cut his toenails. In addition, with a hip prosthesis, it is possible to practice certain sporting activities, although this also depends on the type of sport and the age of the patient.
Despite all of these benefits, implanting an artificial hip joint also comes with some risks. There is a risk of inflammation by bacteria, the formation of a blood clot or damage to the blood vessels or nerves. A dislocation of the hip prosthesis or a difference in leg length can also occur. If there is material wear or if the prosthesis loosens, the artificial joint must be replaced prematurely, but this is rarely the case.
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