No two hips are exactly alike, and the best position for a hip replacement may be different for each patient. The hip, pelvis, and spine all work together when we stand, sit, bend, and walk. As the pelvis moves, the position of the hip socket changes. Some people have a stiff spine or a pelvis that moves differently, which can affect how a hip replacement works during everyday activities.

Dr. Mercuri uses a personalized approach to plan the position of each patient’s hip implants. Before surgery, special X-rays show how the spine and pelvis move between different positions, while a CT scan creates a detailed three-dimensional picture of the hip. Computer planning software combines this information to help determine the best implant position for that individual patient rather than using the same target for everyone. During surgery, Dr. Mercuri uses advanced technology to help place the implants according to this personalized plan.

The goal is to create a hip replacement that works with the patient’s natural anatomy and movement while reducing the risk of problems such as the implants rubbing against each other or the hip coming out of the socket. By combining detailed imaging, computer planning, and surgical technology, hip replacement can be tailored to how each patient’s hip, pelvis, and spine work together.