Birmingham Hip Resurfacing (BHR) Technique

Newest hip replacement surgery

Are you Suffering from Hip Pain?

If you suffer from hip pain due to arthritis or other degenerative disease and are considering a hip arthroplasty, you might be a candidate for Birmingham Hip Resurfacing, the newest hip replacement surgery procedure offered by Bone and Joint Specialists orthopedic surgeons Dr. Kohen and Dr. Schmitt.

Dr. Kohen and Dr. Schmitt, orthopedic hip specialists use the Birmingham Hip Resurfacing (BHR) technique, the only one of its kind approved by the FDA. It preserves more bone and can return functional motion and relieve the pain of hip disease.

Early studies on the Birmingham Resurfacing Hip procedure show enhanced bone strength around the hip, and 98 percent less wear than with traditional replacement joints.

What is Hip Resurfacing

Hip Resurfacing is an alternative technology to Total Hip Arthroplasty that treats painful conditions of the hip in active younger patients

Birmingham Resurfacing Hip Technique vs. Hip Arthroplasty

Traditional hip arthroplasty (hip replacement surgery) involves implanting an entirely new hip joint. Surgeons remove the top of the femur and fit a new metal stem and ball and joint into its place. The ball joint rotates against a plastic liner implanted in the pelvic socket.

Over time, this plastic socket can wear down, requiring another, more difficult operation. Hip replacement is not a good long-term choice for younger patients, especially those who are active since physical activity puts more strain on the replacement.

After Surgery  /  Femoral Head Resurfacing Implant

Utilizing the Birmingham hip resurfacing technique, Dr. Kohen and Dr. Schmitt shave (or resurfaces) the damaged femoral ball and cap it with high carbide cobalt chrome, much like a crown over a resurfaced tooth. A metal cup fits into the pelvic socket for a smooth metal-on-metal gliding motion. The procedure doesn’t involve the femoral head and conserves more natural bone.

Here is what people who have had the Birmingham Resurfacing (BHR) procedure report:

• A return to a normal lifestyle in less time with an improved range of hip motion.
• A reduction in post-operative risks of dislocation and inaccurate leg length.
• A more natural feeling hip than a total hip replacement.

This procedure isn’t suitable for everyone who needs hip arthroplasty surgery. The best way to find out if you qualify for this procedure is to schedule a consultation with our hip specialists, Dr. Kohen or Dr. Schmitt.

Call Bone and Joint Specialists at (248) 673-0500.