Better understanding human hip joint anatomy to advance treatment strategies in hip replacement

What is it about?

Should all of the hip capsule anatomy be repaired following a hip replacement and can looking under the microscope at the nerves help us answer that question? The human hip capsule is a ligamentous structure that tethers the two bones of the hip joint together and is incised during a hip replacement. It is known to be an important contributor to joint stability from a structural perspective. This review demonstrated that the hip capsule also seems to play a key role in joint balance and movement control, and also importantly pain. Consequently, capsular repair, which involves suturing the hip capsule, may bring the potential opportunity to reduce the risk of dislocation. It however remains unclear if the surgical approach to approach or repair the joint should remain consistent in all individuals, or if adaptations to surgical approach are required as a result of interindividual differences, such as age, pain, or other pathologies.

Featured Image

Photo by Jonathan Borba on Unsplash

Photo by Jonathan Borba on Unsplash

Why is it important?

Increasing numbers of total hip replacements are performed each year alongside an increasingly aging population. Between 7 and 17% of these surgeries require revision, with dislocation being one of the most common reasons. This work highlights the current status and the importance of considering the nerves that supply the hip capsule to potentially reduce complications and improving the quality of life following total hip replacement. It also opens the door to considering if individualised medicine may play a role in the development of this surgical procedure.

Perspectives