Robotic technology aids hip surgery clinical trial

A two-year clinical trial aimed at revolutionizing hip surgery, utilizing an advanced robotic guidance system, has been underway in Devon. This research, which is the first of its kind globally, is being spearheaded by The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, located in Exeter. The ‘hip surgical techniques to enhance rehabilitation’ (HIPSTER) study seeks to improve the experience for individuals undergoing a total hip replacement to address severe arthritis by reducing the number of tendons cut during the procedure. Lizzy Gordon, the lead research nurse, stated that the trial has the potential to “benefit a lot of people”. The HIPSTER trial has been investigating whether severing fewer tendons in surgery could lead to a faster recovery, improved rehabilitation, and less pain for patients. Ms Gordon commented: “We know 10% of patients still have pain after one year of having a total hip replacement. “If we can improve patient satisfaction and quicken their recovery, then it’s going to benefit a lot of people if one of these techniques is shown to be better than the other.” Participants in the study are monitored for a period of 12 months following their surgery. Regarding the surgical method, Al-Amin Kassam, the study’s chief investigator, stated: “Most surgeons in the country cut three tendons around the hip to perform a hip replacement. “We are looking at ways of cutting one or two tendons to see if that makes a difference to patient outcomes and helps improve their long term outcomes after hip surgery.” Mr Kassam further mentioned that if the data confirmed that reducing tendon cuts aided patient recovery, the objective would be to implement this approach across the nation and globally in the future. Currently, 246 patients have been enrolled in the trial, with a recruitment goal of 309. The trial commenced in August 2023 and is scheduled to conclude in August 2025.