There is not enough evidence about how well this procedure works or how safe it is. This type of procedure can cause complications. So, it can only be done with special arrangements. This means you will have regular appointments afterwards to check how well it is working or if it has caused problems.
Hip osteoarthritis is a condition in the hip joint that can cause pain, stiffness and difficulty walking. Sometimes the joint needs replacing surgically (total hip arthroplasty). In this procedure, smaller cuts are used to access the hip than in standard surgery. Also, tendons and muscles are moved apart rather than cut, and the hip does not need to be dislocated. Two small cuts are made in the skin on the outside of the hip, and surgical instruments are put through the cuts (percutaneous) to access the joint. The top of the thigh bone is removed, a dome-like structure is fitted into the socket of the joint, and a metal ball and stick are fitted into the bone (supercapsular). The procedure is done under a general or regional anaesthetic. The aim is to reduce symptoms and improve hip function.
The NHS website may have information on your condition and treatment options.
You can search the NHS website for information about consultants and hospitals that offer this procedure.
Is this procedure right for me?
You should be included in making decisions about your care.
Your healthcare professionals should explain the risks and benefits of this procedure and how it is done. They should discuss your options and listen carefully to your views and concerns. They should offer you more information about the procedure. Your family or carers can be involved if you want or need them to be.
You will be asked to decide whether you agree (consent) to have the procedure. Find out more about giving consent to treatment on the NHS website.
Some questions to think about
- How many appointments will I need?
- What are the possible benefits? How likely am I to get them?
- What are the risks or side effects? How likely are they?
- Will I have to stay in hospital?
- What happens if it does not work or something goes wrong?
- What happens if I do not want the procedure?
- Are other treatments available?
More information
- NICE's information on interventional procedures guidance explains what an interventional procedure is and how we assess it.
- NICE’s information on interventional procedures recommendations explains what special arrangements are.
ISBN: 978-1-4731-4598-6
This page was last updated: