New Surgical Approach Allows for Outpatient Total Hip Replacement

WALNUT CREEK, Calif., Aug. 21, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- A new surgical approach offered in California at a Contra Costa County medical practice now allows for total hip replacement on an outpatient basis, requiring only a 23 hour stay, cutting recovery time in half and potentially saving thousands of dollars per patient.

Until recently, total-hip-replacement patients had to tolerate hospital stays from three to ten days and a physical recovery up to six months, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS).

In contrast, ten patients of Dr. Louay Toma of Muir Orthopaedic Specialists, based in Walnut Creek, have undergone a new surgical approach known as anterior total hip replacement and returned home the next day. The anterior, or front-side, surgical approach allows the hip replacement without cutting any muscle.

"I had surgery on a Tuesday and was back to work on Monday," says James Murchison, 63, of San Leandro, who suffered for nearly five years before undergoing the procedure.

"Within two weeks I was doing everything I would normally do, but without pain."

Traditional methods approach the hip from the posterior, or backside, cutting through extensive muscle. The average cost for a patient without health insurance can range from $60,000 to upwards of $100,000. A total hip replacement at a surgery center can cost as little as one-half as much.

"In a time when controlling healthcare costs is of paramount importance, a total hip replacement with only one night in the surgery center is considerable progress," said Dr. Toma, one of only a handful of surgeons in California performing the procedure.

"With time, the anterior surgical procedure will replace traditional methods."

Total hip replacements have doubled in the past 14 years, according to statistical data provided by the AAOS. Candidates for outpatient surgery must meet a number of health requirements.

Muir Orthopaedic Specialists:

A regionally-recognized orthopedic practice located in the Bay Area, Muir Orthopaedic Specialists is comprised of 24 experienced physicians and a team of expert staff. Using state-of-the-art techniques in orthopedic medicine, MOS restores mobility and comfort with musculoskeletal injuries, conditions, and care, treating the foot, ankle, knee, hip, spine, shoulder, elbow and hand. MOS facilities are located east of San Francisco in Walnut Creek, Brentwood, and San Ramon. www.muirortho.com

SOURCE Muir Orthopaedic Specialists

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