News Archives | Page 6 of 6 | Mr Sulaiman Alazzawi

Weight loss drugs may lower risk of hip replacement complications – study finds

A new US study has indicated that weight loss medications could reduce the risk of complications following a hip replacement.

While it’s too early to recommend weight loss drugs as a preventative measure before hip surgery, these recent findings prove promising for patients. Read on to discover more about the potential complications of a hip replacement and the findings of the recent study.

Understanding hip replacement complications

Hip replacement surgery, also known as total hip arthroplasty, is an operation performed to relieve pain and increase mobility in those suffering from significant hip joint deterioration, often caused by hip osteoarthritis. Although this procedure is generally successful, it is not without potential risks.

Some of the most common risks associated with a hip replacement include:

Infections
The development of blood clots
Mechanical problems with the implant, requiring revision surgeries.

A total hip replacement requires you to be fit and healthy before surgery, with a healthy weight to avoid complications. However, for those with obesity, exercise can be very difficult, especially with hip joint pain. The option of using a weight-loss medication could therefore enable more patients to be suitable for this surgery.

Weight loss drugs show promise for reducing complications

The recent study carried out by researchers in New York, involved 9,465 patients with diabetes. Many of the patients also had obesity. Each had undergone a total hip replacement, and some were given Ozempic, a popular weight loss drug.

The results revealed that patients receiving Ozempic experienced a 44% decreased incidence of infections in the newly replaced joint and a 32% lower rate of hospital readmissions once other risk factors were accounted for.

A previous study that followed 1,232 obese patients undergoing hip replacement looked at the impact of Wegovy (Ozempic under a different brand name). That study found that those receiving Wegovy did not encounter heightened risks of postoperative complications, such as infections, implant dislocation, or the necessity for further surgeries.

These outcomes support the possible role of semaglutide, also marketed as Wegovy for weight management, when preparing for hip arthroplasty. However, further research is needed before it could be recommended before total hip replacement surgery.

Other ways to reduce the risk of hip replacement complications

Several strategies can be implemented to minimise the risk of complications following hip replacement surgery. These include achieving and maintaining an ideal weight, participating in suitable pre-operative physical therapy, closely following a post-operative care plan and effectively managing any pre-existing medical conditions.

Equally important is the choice of a skilled and experienced orthopaedic surgeon, such as Mr Sulaiman Alazzawi. His proficiency in performing hip replacement procedures plays a pivotal role in reducing potential risks, ensuring a smooth recovery, and enhancing results.

Schedule an appointment today to discuss the best way for you to minimise hip replacement complications.

4 April 2024/by Clinic Team

Clinic Update, News

Mr Sulaiman Alazzawi attends the British Hip Society Conference 2024

A great time was had at 2024’s British Hip Society Conference that was held in Belfast this year. The BHS Annual Scientific Meeting is the UK’s premier hip surgery forum, discussing research and advances in clinical practice of hip-related conditions.

“I am committed to staying up-to-date on the most recent research and guidelines on hip surgery which is why attending this conference was so valuable,” Mr Sulaiman Alazzawi explains.

“It was great to listen to and meet Dr Dan Berry from the Mayo Clinic and I was also very pleased to be able to contribute to the British Orthopaedic Medical Student Association and the British Society mentorship session.”

5 March 2024/by Clinic Team

News

Private hip and knee replacement surgeries double in five years

New data has suggested a steep rise in patients opting for private joint replacement surgeries in recent years.

According to the Private Healthcare Information Network, the independent, government-mandated organisation which publishes information about private consultants and hospitals, private hospitals now perform more joint operations than NHS hospitals, which represents a 171% increase in hip replacements and a 150% increase in knee replacements since 2019.

Pain is the dominant symptom of osteoarthritis, but it is also common to experience high levels of fatigue, stiffness, and loss of mobility which can have a profound impact on quality of life and our ability to work or even spend time with loved ones and which is why more and more men and women are searching for an alternative to the NHS waiting lists.

Another driving factor is thought to access to the latest technological advancements as private hospitals and consultants are increasingly offering robotic-assisted knee and hip replacements.

This access is very limited through the NHS, although Racer trials are currently being carried out by the Warwick Medical School at the University of Warwick, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire (UHCW) NHS Trust, and the Royal Orthopaedic Hospital (ROH) in Birmingham, to assess the value of robotic-assisted surgery for the NHS.

Benefits of robotic assisted joint replacements

Robotic knee and hip replacement offer many benefits to the patient. These include:

Greater precision: Robotic technology allows for a high degree of accuracy and precision as the surgeon has access to a pre-operative plan based on the patient’s unique anatomy. This promotes better bone alignment and soft tissue balancing.
Minimal trauma: Robotic assisted joint replacement typically involves less trauma to surrounding tissues, blood vessels, nerves, muscles, and ligaments.
Faster recovery: Reduced trauma means less downtime.
Longer life: Greater accuracy decreases the risk of loosening and failure. Typically, patients say that the implant feels more natural which should decreases wear on the implant.

To find out if you’re suitable for a robotic joint replacement, call 07765190 703 or email Alazzawi@FortiusClinic.com to arrange a consultation with Mr Sulaiman Alazzawi.

12 February 2024/by Clinic Team

News

Build your quads to reduce risk of knee replacement

“Don’t skip leg day” is the first rule of weightlifting and new research has found that maintaining and building strength in your thigh muscles can also prevent you needing a knee replacement later in life.

Osteoarthritis is the primary reason for joint replacement surgery, accounting for over 90% of knee replacement. A recent US study focused on 134 patients presenting with stiff and painful knee joints, half of them requiring total knee replacements. Researchers analysed scans of their leg muscle strength in the four years prior to their surgery.

They found that having stronger quads was the most critical factor in reducing the risk of needing the operation. Your quad muscles, or quadriceps femoris, are the group of muscles at the front of your thigh and they contain more mass than any other muscle group in your body. The quads were found to be more important than strong hamstrings, the muscles on the back of your legs.

The University of California’s Dr Upadhyay Bharadwaj said the research analysed the relationship between the quads and the hamstrings in relation to the knee.

“The two muscle groups act as counter forces, and the balance between them enables a wide range of activities while protecting the knee joint,” she said. “Our study shows that in addition to strong muscles individually, larger [quadriceps] muscle groups – relative to hamstring muscle groups – are significantly associated with lower odds of total knee replacement surgery in two to four years.

“Although we presume that overall muscle volume is important as a surrogate marker for muscle strength, the ratio, hence the balance, between quad and hamstring muscles may be more important and significantly associated with lower odds of total knee replacement.”

Variations of squats, lunges and step-ups are all excellent quad-building exercises, and the good news is that they can be done with just your body weight and are relatively easy for beginners.

Other steps to reduce risk of knee replacement

Other proactive lifestyle changes you can make to delay the onset of knee-related issues and reduce the risk of a knee replacement. These include maintaining a healthy weight, wearing protective gear during sports or work, avoiding overuse, and consuming a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods.

Regular check-ups to monitor any changes in the knee joint is also important. To arrange a consultation with knee specialist Mr Sulaiman Alazzawi, call 07765190 703 or email Alazzawi@FortiusClinic.com.

7 February 2024/by Clinic Team

FAQS, News

How long should your hip replacement last?

Hip replacement surgery can be a life-transforming procedure for individuals experiencing severe hip joint pain and dysfunction. While the surgery can significantly improve the quality of life for patients, a question Mr Sulaiman Alazzawi during consultations is often asked is how long does a hip replacement last.

All hip replacements would wear out eventually, so with growing numbers of younger, more active patients experiencing joint pain and stiffness, potential hip replacement longevity has never been so important.

Previously thought to last between 15 and 20 years, a groundbreaking study by researchers at the University of Bristol and published in The Lancet in 2019 suggested they could last even longer for most patients. The study’s authors analysed data over 25 years, performed on over 500,000 patients and discovered that 89% of hip replacements lasted 15 years, 70% lasted 20 years and 58% were still performing well over 25 years.

Factors affecting how long your hip replacement will last

Here, we will explore the factors influencing the longevity of hip replacements and what patients can expect in terms of durability.

Materials: The materials used in hip replacements have evolved over the years. Modern implants typically consist of durable materials such as metal, ceramic, or high-quality polyethylene. Advances in materials have improved wear resistance and reduced the likelihood of complications, contributing to the longevity of hip replacements.
Surgical technique: The skill and precision of the surgeon performing the hip replacement are pivotal. A well-executed surgery reduces the risk of complications and ensures proper alignment of the implant, which is essential for its long-term success. Mr Sulaiman Alazzawi offers robotic assisted hip replacement surgery which can more accurately align and position the hip prosthesis. This means a more natural-feeling joint and less friction and wear.
Patient factors: Age, activity level, and overall health significantly impact the lifespan of a hip replacement. Younger, more active patients may place more stress on the implant, potentially leading to faster wear and tear. Additionally, a patient’s overall health can influence the healing process and the success of the implant integration.

If you have more questions on the longevity of a hip replacement, call 07765190 703 or email Alazzawi@FortiusClinic.com to arrange a consultation with Mr Alazzawi at his London clinics.

25 January 2024/by Clinic Team