Femoral Head Resection: Procedure, Recovery, and Care
Femoral head resection is a surgical procedure in which the rounded top of the thigh bone (femur) is removed from the hip joint. This procedure is typically considered when the hip joint has been severely damaged by conditions such as advanced arthritis, chronic infection, or injury, and when joint replacement is not possible or appropriate.
The surgery is performed under anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision near the hip to access the joint and removes the femoral head using specialized instruments. Any damaged surrounding tissue may also be cleaned out at the time of surgery. After the bone is removed, the incision is closed, and the patient begins recovery.
This procedure does not involve replacing the joint with an implant. Instead, the body forms a soft tissue connection over time where the bone once was. While this limits the joint’s range of motion, it can significantly reduce pain and allow for basic function.
Recovery includes rest, pain management, and physical therapy to restore mobility. Assistive devices such as crutches, a walker, or a wheelchair may be used during healing. Patients are closely monitored to ensure the hip remains stable and free of infection or other complications.
