Rowing over the Atlantic with Total Hip Replacement

UAE, Dubai: In the UAE, Hip replacement is currently one of the most common orthopaedic operations and several surgeries are performed annually at Burjeel Hospital for Advanced Surgery, Dubai (BHAS) to treat conditions related to hips. While the aim of a Total Hip replacement in the past was mainly pain reduction, the patient of the 21^st century’s focus is on function and lifestyle.

“It happens frequently that patients approach us saying - Please Doctor give me a total hip replacement because I want to win the Iron Man, the only medal I did not achieve in my life.” Prof. Dr. Matthias Honl, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, specialized in Joint Replacement and Sports Medicine at Burjeel Hospital for Advanced Surgery (BHAS) stated.

Patrick Bol had a similar concern when he asked his surgeon Dr Matthias: “Can I row over the Atlantic Ocean with my new hip joint?”

Patrick is the leader of an initiative aiming to focus attention on plastic pollution of the oceans. With their custom made Dh1.8 million boat named ‘Year of Zayed’ and sponsored by DP World the team was rowing the Atlantic in a record time of 27 days 4,250-km.

“During our trip we were facing several technical and psychological problems like broken rudders and a breakdown of our water makers, but never my hip joint was giving me any pain or trouble”.

“Hip replacements are on the rise in the UAE and across the world and is most commonly recommended for severe osteoarthritis and inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or for problems with development of the hip during childhood. Hip surgery may also be needed for fractures of the hip, including those resulting from osteoporosis. The largest group is patients between 50 and 80 years, and we’re doing more hip replacements especially on young patients than we have in the past,” said Dr. Matthias Honl.

 “There are no set rules when it comes to hip replacement. While the surgery is commonly associated with older patients, in truth it’s a life-changing procedure for anyone with a worn hip joint.” added Dr. Matthias.

 “Burjeel has been a blessing. The facilities at the hospital are extremely good, and the staff is polite and friendly. It’s a pleasure to be at a hospital that takes care of its patients.” said Patrick.

In the UAE, several people suffer from hip conditions and a number of surgeries are performed annually around the world to treat conditions related to hips.

While hip problems are common, most of them are often neglected. However, studies indicate that treating hip problems early can help the patients live longer. As such, it is essential to look for signs that may indicate a hip problem.

According to Dr. Matthias there are several signs of a hip condition, and it is suggested that individuals who suffer from soreness during or after exercise or pain that interferes with daily activities should consult a specialist to identify the condition. Similarly, difficulty putting shoes or socks is a common sign of stiffness in the hip. In addition, if a hip or groin pain prevents walking normal distances, or if there is a problem standing on the leg for more than a minute, it is essential to seek help from an expert.

“We perform our hip replacements in a minimal invasive technique without damaging any muscles. This prevents pain and loss of function around the surgery and extreme rehabilitation. We use an electric traction device for leg exposure during surgery. We implant cementers artificial joints often made from titanium. The joint itself has a bearing of 3^rd generation ceramic against ceramic, which is extremely resistant against wear and guarantees longevity of the artificial hip joint and allows usage in extreme conditions like Patricks rowing tour over the Atlantic. The components are most often covered by insurance and generates quick recovery. The surgery offers an extreme high success rate and provides not just an unsurpassed patient experience, but also the best possible outcome. As such, individuals who

suffer from any symptoms of hip pain should seek expert advice and perform the necessary action to attain relief from pain.” concluded Dr. Matthias.

A study in Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research® (CORR®), a publication of The Association of Bone and Joint Surgeons® revealed that hip replacement surgery can not only improve the quality of life but is also associated with increased life expectancy, compared to people of similar age and sex.

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About Burjeel Hospital for Advanced Surgery, Dubai

Burjeel Hospital for Advanced Surgery (BHAS), Dubai has three operation theatres with quality services offered in Joint Replacement surgery, Spine Surgery, Paediatric Orthopaedics, Hand Surgery, Sports Medicine and Interventional Pain Management for complicated chronic pain.  Patients benefit from a team of highly specialized consultants, many of whom are nationally and internationally recognized for their expertise and experience.

The team offers medical and surgical care of the highest standards using the most up to date procedures which include the latest non-surgical and minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques to speed up recovery, manage pain, and treat sports injuries and all orthopedic conditions.

Dr. Matthias Honl is a German Board Certified orthopaedic consultant having more than 25 years of International experience in total joint replacement surgeries (knee and hip) and sports injuries. Among his achievements he has contributed in more than 30 papers on Orthopaedic treatment and has got 6 patents under his name which includes “combined spinal fixator” and “femoral component of hip joint prosthesis (SILENT)|”. He is also a top-notch lecturer in several eminent universities around the globe. He was awarded as the leading Orthopaedic Consultant in the Gulf in 2013 in recognition of exemplary achievements in orthopaedics and invaluable services to the society. Till date he has performed more than 8000 surgeries in countries like UAE, Germany, Austria, UK & US.

© Press Release 2019