I have heard, albeit anecdotally, that some hospitals are using 3D imaging and robots (directed by surgeons I hope!) to “custom fit” new implants and reduce dislocation risk. Is this true or just science fiction? I’m hoping for any new techniques to reduce dislocation risk after revision surgery. I’m not very mobile so high risk. Any info?
3D imaging sounds great. Not sure about robots, but it's always possible in the FUTURE. Even with new techniques, especially important how someone handles their own recovery, being aware of limitations for the beginning, if necessary.
Apparently my replacement hip was produced by 3D technology in Switzerland (I'm in the UK). It was fitted by a surgeon though.
I'm not sure I'd trust a robot any more than my original surgeon 
As for dislocation, the best prevention is to build muscle strength, walking, cycling and going to the gym (under the watchful gaze of a personal trainer) are my preferred options. I didn't get a dislocation even when I had no bits of the ceramic bearing left in my replacement hip.
I think the beam is guided by surgeon so doubt Robbie the robot is involved! I’m in Scotland and use a wheelchair so weak muscles. Putting off revision as long as I can in the hope of improving technology making op. easier in future.
sure I read and responded to your post when your hip shattered. Glad you’re up and about. My use of wheelchair makes exercise and strong muscles pretty difficult so I’m always hoping someone somewhere on this site knows something about progress in revision surgery to reduce dislocation risk. Maybe in the next few years....
Forgot to ask, did you go private or was it NHS?
Having to use a wheelchair must make it impossible to exercise the leg muscles, I really don't know what the answer is then, maybe a hip brace. I have seen one chap in hospital with one, but it was pretty bulky to walk around with.
I know that CT - 3D is being used to set everything up for surgery in advance which I think is a brilliant idea. I think the software may be expensive, but it does mean that surgeons can make certain they have correctly fitting hips in advance and that they will not need so much equipment as they will be more aware of what is needed. They can possibly do more complicated surgery as well.
That’s why I’m scared. The half hip replacement i have is okay at the moment but I’ve been told by the surgeon that the less I use it the longer it will last. I don’t understand that as everything I’ve read on this forum seems to suggest the firmer you can keep the muscle, the better it keeps the stem in place. Surely that means the less damage it will do to the cartilage in my socket. I do lots of muscle clenching exercises in the chair and squatting to try and keep muscle as firm as I can. Not as good as walking but I do A LOT of those exercises.
Hi Carol. I was lucky enough to be able to go private.
I have read many articles on 3-D printers used to make custom joint implants.
Really hoping that this will reduce dislocation risk for disabled people like me. Thanks for the response.
It's true...I received it with my new hip. Welcome to the age of the Jetsons
check out some of the vendors of the bionic hips. they have videos of how the robot works with the surgeon. the surgeon stays in control, and the robot give tactile feedback. very interesting
Seriously!? I believed the bit about 3D imaging but thought the mention of robots was nonsense. Let’s just hope it translates into better fitting implants and fewer people like me posting needing to about their problems on this site.
Did it mean your operation was quicker? Easier to recover from? Will it mean your hip will last longer? Or is it just better for surgeon?
Using 3D Image to create a hip replacement that works to ‘trick’ the body’s host bone into believing that the implant is part of the bone itself. This newly developed replacement should not only last longer but also create fewer problems for those receiving it. If you are looking for safe surgery you can visit Aakash Healthcare dwarka Delhi.
Fascinating. My limited mobility means my concern is the dislocation risk and it sounds as if this will be reduced. It’s really good news for all future hip replacements and revisions.