Osteoarthritis of the Hip
is characterized by pain and loss of function. Underlying causes span a vast array of different pathologies ranging from developmental dysplasia of the hip in newborns, to other paediatric disorders, posttraumatic conditions, excess weight, or osteonecrosis.
Treatment options include weight loss, appropriate exercise, patient education, hyaluronate injections, and pain medication as needed. While surgical correction of underlying deformities can be undertaken in selected cases, total hip replacement is the treatment of choice for advanced stage disease. Our experienced surgeons perform primary as well as revision surgeries.
Hip Dysplasia in Newborns
In Germany, all infants are screened by ultrasound exam for developmental dysplasia of the hips (DDH) at age 6 weeks. In case of abnormalities, children are usually referred to a specialized center such as ours, for treatment with orthotic braces. In severe cases not responding sufficiently to conservative treatment, a pelvic osteotomy is performed at a later stage.
Fractures
Fractures around the hip comprise injuries to the pelvic ring and femur. While stable pelvic fractures can be treated conservatively, others may require internal fixation.
Fractures of the femur near the hip can occur after high velocity trauma as in vehicle accidents, but are also increasingly seen in elderly patients suffering from osteoporosis. With few exceptions, these fractures require immediate stabilization by screws, intramedullary nailing, or joint replacement, respectively.
