A unilateral hip decompression is a surgical procedure used to treat hip conditions such as osteonecrosis or avascular necrosis. The goal of this procedure is to remove pressure from the hip joint, ultimately reducing a patient’s pain levels. During this procedure, the surgeon will drill into the thigh bone to relieve pressure. Sometimes the surgeon will perform cell therapy as well by delivering a mixture of blood and progenitor cells. This will help the joint restore function.

This procedure is a minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgery. This is a great option for patients who are struggling to walk or experience severe pain as a result of a hip condition. Smith Medical proudly offers this minimally invasive surgical alternative to more traditional alternatives including partial and total hip replacement.

When is this Procedure Necessary?

If patients are struggling with a hip condition, conservative therapy is typically the first treatment step. This includes but is not limited to, physical therapy, pain medications, and lifestyle changes. If these therapies are ineffective after several months, patients may consider a hip decompression procedure. If only one hip is affected, they will undergo unilateral hip decompression surgery. 

This procedure is typically an option in the early stages of a hip condition. The overall goal is to preserve the joint without the need for surgical replacement. If the hip condition is too severe, patients may need to consider a more intensive procedure. 

Patients may be a candidate for a unilateral hip procedure if:

• The patient suffers from a hip condition
• Conservative therapies and lifestyle adjustments did not provide relief
• The patient’s hip condition is caught in the early stages
• An invasive surgery, such as a hip replacement, is not yet necessary

Preparing for Your Procedure

Patients will be under general anesthesia to ensure their comfort throughout the procedure. Therefore, patients need to follow any instructions provided by their surgeon the day following and the day of surgery. This may include fasting, stopping smoking, and other instructions depending on the patient. These instructions will help to ensure a successful surgery. 

During the procedure, the surgeon will begin by cutting a small incision along the patient’s hip joint. The surgeon will then use a surgical instrument such as an arthroscope to view the area during the procedure. They will drill a hole in the area and remove any dead bone. If necessary, the surgeon will also perform cell therapy by delivering blood and progenitor cells to help restore function. 

After the procedure, patients are expected to follow a specific physical therapy program. This will help them restore function and regain muscle and balance. Most of the time, the surgeon will prescribe pain medications so the patient can manage any pain associated with recovery. Although this is considered a minimally invasive procedure, full recovery can take up to nine months.

At Smith Medical, we understand the complexities of healthcare. In many cases, procedures and treatments are unaffordable because of their high price tags. Our direct pay option allows patients without insurance access to quality healthcare. It is Smith Medical’s mission to provide our patients with the accessible, transparent, and quality care they deserve.

Contact the team at Smith Medical to learn more today.

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