Hip Resurfacing
If you are active and experiencing persistent hip pain despite having good bone health, hip resurfacing may be an alternative to a total hip replacement. This less invasive procedure reshapes and caps the damaged surface of your hip instead of removing the entire joint. At Cleveland Clinic London, our consultant orthopaedic surgeons are experts in this bone-preserving technique, which can help you return to activities you enjoy sooner with confidence and comfort.
Why Choose Us for Hip Resurfacing?
Recognised expertise:
Our internationally recognised consultant orthopaedic surgeons specialise in all types of orthopaedic procedures, including hip resurfacing surgery. They also lecture at top institutions, sharing the latest best practices with the next generation of surgeons. Meet our team.
Patient-centred care:
If you are active with good bone health, hip resurfacing could be an effective and less invasive way to manage your hip pain instead of a full hip replacement. Our expert consultant orthopaedic surgeons will assess whether resurfacing may be an option for you. They will also explain the procedure clearly, so you feel confident and informed about your care.
Collaborative care:
Our surgeons work closely with other Cleveland Clinic London experts, including radiologists and physiotherapists, to ensure your care is cohesive, well-coordinated and personalised.
Industry leaders:
Cleveland Clinic London consultant orthopaedic surgeon Justin Cobb is pioneering advancements in hip resurfacing with the development of the H1 implant. This advanced ceramic device offers a longer-lasting, non-toxic alternative to traditional metal designs and is a major step forward in hip resurfacing.
People Who May Benefit From Hip Resurfacing
We often recommend hip resurfacing for active people with healthy bones because it preserves more natural bone than a full hip replacement. This leads to improved movement and stability, helping you return more rapidly to activities you enjoy. It can also make any future surgery easier, should it be needed.
Hip resurfacing is generally safe but still a major surgery. Since it is not urgent, you can plan it around your schedule. You might consider this type of surgery if your hip pain disrupts your sleep, makes daily self-care challenging or causes you to limp, which can limit your activities.
Understanding the H1 Implant
Cleveland Clinic London has been at the forefront of developing the H1 implant, a breakthrough in hip resurfacing technology. The H1 implant offers a new, more advanced option if you are considering hip resurfacing. Made from a strong, body-friendly ceramic, it avoids issues linked to traditional metal implants, such as the release of metal particles. This greatly reduces the risk of complications.
Its smooth, contoured shape allows for a better fit within your joint, making it suitable for a wider range of people. This includes women and those with smaller frames, who’ve often had fewer choices.
Preparing for Hip Resurfacing
Before your surgery, you will attend a pre-admission clinic at the hospital. Your surgeon will ask how long you’ve had hip pain and if you have already been treated. During this appointment, you will also undergo a physical examination and have a series of tests to ensure you’re fit for the operation. These might include blood tests, heart monitoring if required, hip X-rays or other tests, such as an MRI or CT scan.
At this stage, the hospital team will advise you if you need to stop taking any medications or adjust the dosage or timing before your surgery. It is a good idea to bring your medicines, or a list of them, with you to help with this.
Consultants Who Perform Hip Resurfacing
Locations
Our consultants see patients in modern and technologically advanced facilities in the heart of London.Having Hip Resurfacing at Cleveland Clinic London
On the day of your surgery, you and your anaesthetist will discuss the type of anaesthesia you prefer. This may be a general anaesthetic to put you to sleep or a spinal injection with sedation. We typically prefer sedation, as it avoids fully putting you under, allowing your brain to recover more quickly. The sedation is sufficient to ensure you remain comfortable and unaware throughout surgery.
During the procedure, your surgeon will:
- Make a cut over your hip
- Remove damaged bone and cartilage from the socket
- Insert a prosthetic socket (acetabulum)
- Reshape the head of your femur (thigh bone)
- Place a ceramic cap over the femoral head
- Re-align your joint and fit the resurfaced femur into the new socket
After Surgery
Plan to spend a day or two in hospital after surgery. If you need to stay longer for any reason, your surgeon will advise you when you are ready to be discharged.
You will typically be able to start bearing weight on your leg shortly after the operation. In many cases, you will begin working with a physiotherapist on the same day as your surgery. This will help you gain mobility as quickly as possible. You may need crutches or a walking frame at first — mainly for balance and support.
Some stiffness and slight pain are normal in the early days, and nonsteroidal inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage any discomfort.
Follow-Up Care
You’ll meet with your surgeon about six weeks after surgery. At this appointment, your surgeon will evaluate your recovery. You may have a physical examination and X-rays to ensure your hip is healing well, and the implant is stable. You will also have the opportunity to ask questions, discuss concerns and go over any possible changes to your medication or physiotherapy programme.
Paying for Hip Resurfacing at Cleveland Clinic London
At Cleveland Clinic London, you may opt to take advantage of our self-pay services or, if you prefer, use private medical insurance. We accept most major insurers. Please contact us if you need help navigating the financial side of your care.
What’s Next?
At Cleveland Clinic London, we are here to help you find lasting relief from persistent hip pain. If you have an active lifestyle and good bone health, hip resurfacing could be an alternative to a total hip replacement, allowing you to recover more quickly and get back to the activities you enjoy. Our expert consultant orthopaedic surgeons use the latest techniques and technology — including the innovative H1 ceramic implant — to provide care tailored to your needs. We will guide you every step of the way, so you can move forward with assurance.
Appointments
Ready to see us? We’re ready for you and look forward to the opportunity to assist with your needs. We’re available to take your call Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday, 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. You’re also welcome to request an appointment online.
Self-Pay
We offer convenient self-pay services. But what does that mean? With this option, you’ll benefit from transparent pricing, access to unparalleled care, and the expertise of our consultants.
Private Insurance
Need help using your private insurance? We make it easy to get your referral, authorisation and make sure everything’s covered so you can come into your appointment with one less thing to worry about.
