What is Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty / Partial Hip Replacement -

The hip joint is a ball and socket joint formed of the femoral head ( thigh bone) and acetabulum ( pelvic bone).
Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty / Partial Hip replacement, is a surgical procedure in which only the fractured femoral head is removed and replaced with new, artificial implants. The goals of hip replacement surgery include relieving pain, increasing mobility, and improving the function of the hip joint.

Difference between Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty / Partial hip replacement and Total hip replacement

The hip joint is a ball and socket joint formed of the femoral head ( thigh bone) and acetabulum ( pelvic bone). In Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty or Partial hip replacement as the name mentioned Partial - Only the femoral head is replaced with the metal implant. Whereas in Total hip replacement, both the Head and socket are replaced with metal implants.

How do we decide on Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty versus Total Hip Replacement

Bipolar Hemiarthroplasty is ideal in elderly people who are less active with poor bone quality which is usually seen in osteoporosis. Usually, these individuals are at high risk for anesthesia. When such situations arise and have to perform surgery on such high-risk people it is better to do a Bipolar hemiarthroplasty. It is very essential to mobilize these types of high-risk individuals out of bed to prevent any complications to arise such as bed sores, aspiration pneumonia, and worsening of co-morbid conditions.

Cemented or uncemented Bipolar hemiarthroplasty can be done depending on age, and bone quality.