Hip resurfacing is an alternative to total hip arthroplasty for the young and active patient likely to outlive traditional means of hip joint replacement. The acetabular cup is implanted in much the same fashion as an uncemented total hip arthroplasty, however, implantation of the femoral component is unique to hip resurfacing, presenting both distinct benefits and limitations. Hip resurfacing spares much of the proximal femur including the femoral neck and portions of the femoral head. This may be advantageous if the patient requires revision surgery; however, preservation of the femoral neck bears with it the risk of femoral neck fracture. The exact mechanism of neck fracture is not fully understood. Avoiding potential fracture risks is vital to ensuring optimal patient outcomes. The current work investigated mechanical femoral head preparatory factors that may predispose to femoral neck fracture. Intra-operative computer navigation is emerging as the gold-standard in orthopaedic care. In hip resurfacing, navigation may improve the surgeon’s ability to optimally implant the resurfacing prosthesis; however, much of this technology is still in its infancy and requires investigation into the accuracy and repeatability of this peri-operative tool. Pre-operative planning can assist the surgeon in optimally determining the size and position of the resurfacing components, specifically in reference to the patient’s unique anatomy, prior to performing the operation. This may aid in correct implant selection and provide a basis on which to conduct intra-operative navigation. However, the accuracy and repeatability of pre-operative planning for hip resurfacing has not yet been established. Thus, this body of work looked to establish a clear methodology for pre-operative planning, intra-operative computer navigation and surgical technique in order to optimize preparation of the femoral head, ultimately reducing the risk of femoral neck fracture in hip resurfacing.

Hip resurfacing is an alternative to total hip arthroplasty for the young and active patient likely to outlive traditional means of hip joint replacement. The acetabular cup is implanted in much the same fashion as an uncemented total hip arthroplasty, however, implantation of the femoral component is unique to hip resurfacing, presenting both distinct benefits and limitations. Hip resurfacing spares much of the proximal femur including the femoral neck and portions of the femoral head. This may be advantageous if the patient requires revision surgery; however, preservation of the femoral neck bears with it the risk of femoral neck fracture. The exact mechanism of neck fracture is not fully understood. Avoiding potential fracture risks is vital to ensuring optimal patient outcomes. The current work investigated mechanical femoral head preparatory factors that may predispose to femoral neck fracture. Intra-operative computer navigation is emerging as the gold-standard in orthopaedic care. In hip resurfacing, navigation may improve the surgeon’s ability to optimally implant the resurfacing prosthesis; however, much of this technology is still in its infancy and requires investigation into the accuracy and repeatability of this peri-operative tool. Pre-operative planning can assist the surgeon in optimally determining the size and position of the resurfacing components, specifically in reference to the patient’s unique anatomy, prior to performing the operation. This may aid in correct implant selection and provide a basis on which to conduct intra-operative navigation. However, the accuracy and repeatability of pre-operative planning for hip resurfacing has not yet been established. Thus, this body of work looked to establish a clear methodology for pre-operative planning, intra-operative computer navigation and surgical technique in order to optimize preparation of the femoral head, ultimately reducing the risk of femoral neck fracture in hip resurfacing.