Bipolar vs. Unipolar Hip Prosthesis: Understanding the Key Differences.

 

When it comes to treating severe hip joint problems, especially in older adults or patients suffering from fractures or arthritis, hip replacement surgery can offer a new lease of life. Among the various surgical options, partial hip replacements, where only the femoral head (the "ball" of the hip joint) is replaced, are often performed. Within this category, two main types of prostheses are used: unipolar and bipolar hip prostheses. While they may seem similar on the surface, these implants have distinct differences in design, movement, and clinical outcomes. Understanding these differences can help patients and caregivers make more informed choices alongside their orthopedic surgeons.