Overview
Hip replacement surgeries are one of the most common in the field of orthopedics, especially for seniors or those diagnosed with conditions such as arthritis or those who have experienced a dramatic blunt force injury. Proximal hip replacement is also known as proximal femoral replacement and is commonly utilized for different types of bone defects, including metastatic bone disease. Proximal means "closest to" so in the case of hip replacement refers to the top part of the femur.

Proximal femur reduction, fixation and other forms of arthroplasty are common in both partial and total hip replacement surgical procedures.

Proximal Hip Replacement
One of the most common reasons for hip replacement surgery is a fracture in the femoral neck. The femoral neck is the upper part of the thighbone that connects the ball of the femur to the actual thighbone. Femoral neck fractures typically fracture at the base of the head, the portion of the topmost part of the femur that fits into the hip socket. Partial hip replacement or total hip replacement is often recommended in such situations.

During the procedure, the femoral head or ball portion of the upper end of the thighbone is removed. In a partial hip replacement, a replacement for just the femoral head is determined and inserted. This procedure is called a hemi-arthroplasty. An approximated size for the femoral head and neck is determined and a prosthesis is inserted into the top of the thighbone. The prosthesis can be made of a variety of materials. A long neck for the ball prosthesis is inserted down into the top of the thighbone . An artificial prosthetic "head" or ball replaces a damaged femoral head and allows fixation into the hip socket.

A full or total hip replacement utilizes preparation and insertion of a ball type component that is inserted and affixed to the hip socket prior to insertion of the upper head of the femur. The length of the femoral neck is determined by the condition and strength or stability of what remains of the original femoral neck. Adequate muscle tension must be maintained to reduce risk of prosthetic dislocation following the surgery, as well as to prevent or reduce weakened hip abductor muscles and range of motion.

After placement of the prosthesis in the hip joint, the surgeons determine strength and range of motion of the new prosthesis. This is done while the patient lies on his back, as well as placing the patient in a lateral decubitus position, or such that a person might achieve by lying on his back with knees bent, and crossing the affected leg over the other knee.

Careful precision in regard to stem size is also important during surgery. The stem or neck of the prosthesis or prostatic device is inserted into the upper portion of the femur. The stem may be held in place with cement if required.

Different surgical techniques are required depending on the type of surgical approach, the type of prostatic used, and the type of femoral neck or stem used during the hip replacement or repair procedure.

How Much Does Proximal Hip Replacement Surgery Cost?
Cost of hip replacement depends on whether a partial or total hip replacement procedure is engaged. In the United States, a hip replacement procedure may cost as much as $43,000 to $50,000. However, medical travelers visiting countries like Thailand, India and Singapore may spend an average of $9,000-$11,000 for proximal hip replacement procedures.

Finding the Right Doctor
Orthopedic surgeons must pass board certified following oral and written examinations in their native or adoptive countries of origin. For example, in the United States, this is the American Orthopedic Association, the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons or the American Board of Medical Specialties.

Following educational courses and exams, most orthopedic surgeons or professionals are required to complete a four-year residency-training program within a hospital setting. In addition, a resident is required to American Osteopathic Board of Orthopedic Surgery.

Some orthopedists sub-specialize in fields such as sports or trauma medicine, while others specialize in the treatment of arthritis, spinal cord or congenital defect diseases or conditions.