A total hip replacement is a surgical procedure used to treat severe hip arthritis or damage when other treatments are no longer effective. The hip joint is a ball-and-socket joint where the head of the femur (thigh bone) fits into the socket of the pelvis (acetabulum). When the cartilage that cushions this joint wears away, it can cause pain, stiffness, and loss of movement.

During a total hip replacement, the damaged parts of the joint are removed and replaced with smooth, artificial components. The worn-out ball of the femur is replaced with a metal or ceramic ball attached to a stem, which fits securely inside the thigh bone. The damaged socket is reshaped and lined with a metal shell and a smooth plastic or ceramic insert to create a new, pain-free surface.

This procedure aims to restore mobility, reduce or eliminate pain, and allow patients to return to a more active lifestyle. Modern hip replacement surgery is highly successful, with most patients experiencing a dramatic improvement in quality of life and the ability to perform daily activities comfortably.

Robotic-assisted total hip replacement is an advanced technique that enhances the precision of hip replacement surgery. While the surgeon still performs the operation, robotic technology is used as a powerful tool to guide planning and execution.

Before surgery, a detailed 3D model of your hip is created using a CT scan. This allows for accurate planning based on your individual anatomy, helping to determine the optimal position and orientation of the implant. During the operation, a robotic arm assists the surgeon in preparing the bone and positioning the implant with a high level of accuracy. Real-time feedback from the robotic system helps ensure that each step is carried out exactly as planned.

This level of precision can lead to several potential benefits, including more consistent implant alignment, reduced risk of leg length differences, and improved joint stability. For patients, this may translate into a more natural-feeling hip, quicker recovery, and potentially better long-term outcomes.

Robotic-assisted surgery does not replace the skill of the surgeon—it enhances it. As a fellowship-trained hip surgeon, I use this technology where appropriate to provide highly personalised and accurate care tailored to your anatomy and lifestyle.