BIRMINGHAM HIP resurfacing in Rhode Island

South County Hospital, long recognized for its specialty in orthopedics, is the first in Rhode Island to make available to its patients the FDA-approved BIRMINGHAM HIP Resurfacing System as an alternative to total hip replacement. Unlike total hip replacement, which reconstructs the entire hip joint, this exciting method of hip resurfacing simply shaves and caps a few centimeters of bone within the joint.

What is hip resurfacing?
The BIRMINGHAM HIP Resurfacing System's bone-conserving approach preserves more of the patient's natural bone structure and stability, covering the joint surfaces with an all-metal implant that more closely resembles a tooth cap than a hip implant. This approach reduces the post-operative risks of dislocation and inaccurate leg length, and because the all-metal implant is made from tough, smooth cobalt chrome, it has the potential to last longer than traditional hip implants.

Who is a good candidate for hip resurfacing?
The BIRMINGHAM HIP implant is intended for patients suffering from hip pain due to osteoarthritis, dysplasia or avascular necrosis, and those for whom total hip replacement may not be needed due to their bone density and quality. Generally, hip resurfacing is ideal for patients under age 60 who live active lifestyles.

To learn more
Robert Marchand, M.D., Board Certified in Orthopedic Surgery and a member of the Medical Staff at South County Hospital, is the only physician in Rhode Island certified to perform BIRMINGHAM HIP Resurfacing. Dr. Marchand, who has been in orthopedic surgical practice since 1988 and is a member of the South County Orthopedics private practice, specializes in reconstructive surgery of the hip and knee with expertise in minimally invasive and computer-assisted orthopedic surgery.