Hip replacements on the rise in UAE

Imran Mojib, Special Correspondent

In the UAE, hip replacement is currently one of the most common orthopaedic operations and several surgeries are performed annually at Burjeel Hospital for Advanced Surgery, Dubai (BHAS) to treat conditions related to hips. While the aim of a Total Hip replacement in the past was mainly pain reduction, the patient of the 21st century’s focus is on function and lifestyle.

“It happens frequently that patients approach us saying – Please doctor give me a total hip replacement because I want to win the Iron Man, the only medal I did not achieve in my life.” Prof. Dr Matthias Honl, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, specialised in Joint Replacement and Sports Medicine at Burjeel Hospital for Advanced Surgery (BHAS) stated.

Patrick Bol had a similar concern when he asked his surgeon Dr Matthias, “Can I row over the Atlantic Ocean with my new hip joint?”

Patrick is the leader of an initiative aiming to focus attention on plastic pollution of the oceans. With their custom-made Dhs1.8 million boat named ‘Year of Zayed’ and sponsored by DP World the team was rowing the Atlantic in a record time of 27 days 4,250-km.

“During our trip we were facing several technical and psychological problems like broken rudders and a breakdown of our water makers, but never my hip joint was giving me any pain or trouble,” he said.

“Hip replacements are on the rise in the UAE and across the world and is most commonly recommended for severe osteoarthritis and inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or for problems with development of the hip during childhood. Hip surgery may also be needed for fractures of the hip, including those resulting from osteoporosis. The largest group is patients between 50 and 80 years, and we’re doing more hip replacements especially on young patients than we have in the past,” said Dr Matthias Honl.

“There are no set rules when it comes to hip replacement. While the surgery is commonly associated with older patients, in truth it’s a life-changing procedure for anyone with a worn hip joint,” added Dr Matthias.

In the UAE, several people suffer from hip conditions and a number of surgeries are performed annually around the world to treat conditions related to hips. While hip problems are common, most of them are often neglected. However, studies indicate that treating hip problems early can help the patients live longer. As such, it is essential to look for signs that may indicate a hip problem.

According to Dr Matthias there are several signs of a hip condition, and it is suggested that individuals who suffer from soreness during or after exercise or pain that interferes with daily activities should consult a specialist to identify the condition. Similarly, difficulty in putting on shoes or socks is a common sign of stiffness in the hip. In addition, if a hip or groin pain prevents walking normal distances, or if there is a problem standing on the leg for more than a minute, it is essential to seek help from an expert.

“We perform our hip replacements in a minimal invasive technique without damaging any muscles. This prevents pain and loss of function around the surgery and extreme rehabilitation. We use an electric traction device for leg exposure during surgery. We implant cementers artificial joints often made from titanium. The joint itself has a bearing of 3rd generation ceramic against ceramic, which is extremely resistant against wear and guarantees longevity of the artificial hip joint and allows usage in extreme conditions like Patricks rowing tour over the Atlantic.”

“The components are most often covered by insurance and generates quick recovery. The surgery offers an extreme high success rate and provides not just an unsurpassed patient experience, but also the best possible outcome. As such, individuals who suffer from any symptoms of hip pain should seek expert advice and perform the necessary action to attain relief from pain,” concluded Dr Matthias.