The Birmingham Hip Resurfacing Surgery

The Birmingham Hip Resurfacing (BHR) Implant has been used globally since 1997 and was approved by the FDA to be used in the United States in March 2006. The surgery offers an alternative to total hip replacement surgery. Birmingham Hip Resurfacing is for patients suffering from hip pain due to osteoarthritis, hip dysplasia or avascular necrosis. The Birmingham Hip Resurfacing Implant preserves more of the body’s natural bone structures and stability than total hip replacements while potentially returning the patient to a more physically active lifestyle.

Who is the typical candidate?
The BHR System considers the typical candidate to be adults under the age of 60 who may not be best suited for total hip replacement due to an increased level of physical activity. Active adults over age 60 may be candidates, depending on their bone quality.

How does a hip joint work?
The hip is a ball-and-socket joint. In a healthy hip, the ball-end of the femur swivels smoothly in the socket of the pelvis (also called the acetabulum).

But in an unhealthy hip, the femur and acetabulum may become rough and worn.  The bones of the joint rub together causing pain, swelling and stiffness. 

What is the BHR procedure?
The Birmingham Hip Resurfacing System is a surgical procedure, which shields the joint by covering the ball and socket with smooth, durable high carbide cobalt chrome. For young and physically active patients, this procedure can be a bone-conserving alternative to total hip replacement surgery. 

What are the benefits?
The key benefits include improved femoral head size, advanced bearing surface and substantial bone conservation. The implant is closely matched to the size of the patient’s natural femoral head, which means a reduced chance of dislocation after surgery.  The implant allows for metal-on-metal contact only, which reduces joint wear by 97% compared to metal on plastic total hips.  Also, the procedure preserves the natural femoral neck, providing more bone conservation than total hip replacement surgery. 

What are the risks?
Risks with the BHR procedure include Thromboembolism, Infection and Pneumonia.  Risks have been minimal and an international study indicated that of 1626 BHR implants, 99.5% of patients were “pleased” or “extremely pleased” with the results of the surgery. 

Where can it be performed?
At this time The Jewish Hospital in Kenwood is the only hospital in the Greater Cincinnati area offer the Birmingham Hip Resurfacing Surgery. 

How can I obtain more information?
For more information, please contact the Jewish Hospital Joint Replacement Center at 513-686-4040.

- Information provided by Smith & Nephew, Inc.