Hip Resurfacing vs. Total Hip Replacement: Benefits & Candidacy

Hip Resurfacing: Bone-Preserving Alternative to THR

Resurfacing caps the femoral head with a metal hemisphere; the acetabulum receives a metal cup. The femoral neck is retained.

Advantages Over Total Hip Replacement

• Bone conservation: Facilitates future revision.
• Lower dislocation risk: Larger head diameter.
• More natural biomechanics: Preserves femoral neck length/version.
• Faster return to high activity: Running, impact sports often allowed.
• Smaller incision, less soft-tissue disruption.

Ideal Candidate

• Male, <60–65 years, good bone quality, high activity demand.
• Contraindicated: osteoporosis, large cysts, renal failure, metal allergy, women of childbearing age (metal ion concerns).

Current Status

Modern cobalt-chrome implants with improved bearing surfaces have reduced early failure rates. Long-term registries show excellent survivorship in selected patients. Shared decision-making essential.