Posterior Hip Replacement
Posterior Hip Replacement in Auburn Hills, MI
Chronic hip pain caused by arthritis can make walking, exercising, climbing stairs, and other daily activities increasingly difficult. When conservative treatments no longer provide relief, posterior hip replacement may offer a long-term solution for restoring mobility and improving quality of life.
Nicholas B Frisch, MD | MBA is a fellowship-trained, board-certified orthopaedic surgeon specializing in hip and knee replacement, outpatient surgery, robotic-assisted procedures, complex revision and advanced technology. He performs advanced hip reconstruction and minimally invasive joint replacement procedures. Utilizing a mini-posterior hip replacement approach, Dr. Frisch helps patients throughout Auburn Hills and the surrounding communities of Southeast Michigan achieve lasting pain relief while preserving important muscle structures and supporting a successful recovery.
Posterior hip replacement is a minimally invasive hip surgery performed to replace the hip joint.
The posterior approach is traditionally the most common approach used to perform total hip replacement.
In posterior hip replacement, the surgeon makes the hip incision toward the back of the hip close to the buttocks. The incision is placed so the abductor muscles, the major walking muscles, are not cut.
Indications
Hip replacement is indicated in patients with arthritis of the hip joint.
Arthritis is a condition in which the articular cartilage that covers the joint surface is damaged or worn out causing pain and inflammation. Some of the causes of arthritis include:
- Advancing age
- Congenital or developmental hip diseases
- Obesity
- Previous history of hip injury or fracture
- Increased stress on hip because of overuse
Symptoms
Patients with arthritis may have a thinner articular cartilage lining, a narrowed joint space, presence of bone spurs or excessive bone growth around the edges of the hip joint. Because of all these factors arthritis patients can experience pain, stiffness, and restricted movements.
Diagnosis
Your doctor will evaluate arthritis based on the characteristic symptoms and diagnostic tests. Your orthopaedic surgeon will perform a physical examination; order X-rays and other scans, and some blood tests to rule out any other conditions that may cause similar symptoms.
Procedure
We use a mini-posterior approach to the hip with minimally-invasive techniques. Posterior hip replacement surgery involves the following steps:
- The procedure is performed under general or regional anesthesia.
- You will lie sideways on the operating table.
- A small incision is made on the side of the hip, close to the buttocks beyond the abductor muscles.
- The surgeon separates the muscles and tendons to gain access to the hip joint.
- The thigh bone or femur is separated from the hip socket, acetabulum.
- The damaged femoral head is cut off and the bone is prepared to receive the femoral component of the prosthesis.
- The acetabular surface is then prepared and the acetabular component of the prosthesis is inserted.
- A liner made up of plastic, metal or ceramic is placed inside the acetabular component to provide a smooth, gliding surface.
- Then the new femoral component is inserted into the femur bone and the femoral head component is placed on the stem.
- Once the artificial components are fixed in place, the instruments are withdrawn, soft tissues are re-approximated, and the incisions are closed with sutures and covered with a sterile dressing.
The advantages of the mini-posterior approach include:
- High success rate
- Minimally invasive
- Smaller incision
- Minimal muscle damage
- Precise placement of implants
- Allows excellent visibility of the joint
Risks and Complications
All surgeries carry an element of risk whether it is related to the anesthesia or the procedure itself. Risks and complications are rare but can occur. Below is a list of complications that can occur following any hip replacement procedure:
- Dislocation
- Infection
- Fracture
- Nerve damage
- Hemarthrosis - excess bleeding into the joint after the surgery.
- Deep vein thrombosis (blood clot)
- Leg length inequality
In the event of an emergency dial 911.
In the event of a concerning post-operative complication, please contact us immediately for prompt support. Most concerns can be appropriately addressed by our team and we will make every effort to be available to you in a timely fashion. Avoid going to the Emergency Department for surgical issues unless necessary, or unless instructed by our team.
Why Choose Dr. Nicholas B. Frisch for Posterior Hip Replacement in Auburn Hills, MI?
Selecting an experienced hip replacement specialist is an important step toward achieving the best possible surgical outcome. Dr. Frisch combines specialized training, advanced surgical techniques, and patient-focused care to help individuals regain comfort and mobility.
Fellowship-Trained Hip Reconstruction Specialist
Dr. Frisch focuses on hip and knee replacement surgery, treating patients with arthritis, joint degeneration, and complex hip conditions using evidence-based treatment approaches.
Expertise in Mini-Posterior Hip Replacement
Dr. Frisch utilizes a minimally invasive mini-posterior approach that allows access to the hip joint through a smaller incision while minimizing disruption to key muscle groups.
Muscle-Preserving Surgical Techniques
The posterior approach is designed to avoid cutting the important abductor muscles responsible for walking and hip stability, helping support recovery and postoperative function.
Personalized Treatment Plans
Every patient receives an individualized evaluation and treatment strategy tailored to their symptoms, anatomy, lifestyle goals, and overall health.
Comprehensive Care Throughout Recovery
From your initial consultation through rehabilitation and follow-up appointments, Dr. Frisch and his team provide guidance and support every step of the way.
Serving Southeast Michigan Communities
Conveniently located in Auburn Hills, Dr. Frisch serves patients from Rochester Hills, Troy, Bloomfield Hills, Pontiac, Birmingham, Lake Orion, Clarkston, Sterling Heights, and surrounding areas.
Posterior Hip Replacement FAQs
What is posterior hip replacement?
Posterior hip replacement is a surgical technique used to replace a damaged hip joint through an incision made toward the back of the hip. It remains one of the most commonly utilized approaches for total hip replacement.
What is a mini-posterior hip replacement?
A mini-posterior hip replacement uses a smaller incision and minimally invasive techniques to access the hip joint while minimizing disruption to surrounding tissues.
What conditions are treated with posterior hip replacement?
Posterior hip replacement is commonly recommended for patients with osteoarthritis, inflammatory arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, hip joint degeneration, and other conditions causing chronic hip pain and reduced mobility.
What are the benefits of the posterior approach?
Potential benefits include excellent visualization of the hip joint, preservation of important walking muscles, precise implant positioning, smaller incisions, and reduced soft tissue disruption when performed using minimally invasive techniques.
How long does recovery take after posterior hip replacement?
Recovery varies for each patient, but many individuals begin walking shortly after surgery and continue improving over the following weeks and months with rehabilitation and guided activity progression.
How do I know if I am a candidate for posterior hip replacement?
Dr. Frisch will evaluate your symptoms, medical history, imaging studies, overall health, and treatment goals to determine whether posterior hip replacement is the most appropriate option for your condition.
Schedule a Posterior Hip Replacement Consultation in Auburn Hills, MI
If hip arthritis or chronic joint pain is limiting your ability to stay active, expert orthopaedic care is available close to home. Dr. Nicholas B. Frisch provides advanced posterior hip replacement solutions for patients throughout Auburn Hills and Southeast Michigan.
Take the next step toward lasting pain relief and improved mobility. Contact our Auburn Hills office today to schedule a consultation and learn whether posterior hip replacement may be the right treatment option for you.
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