Regis Philbin Having Hip Replacement Surgery

Talk show host Regis Philbin, age78, announced Monday that he will be taking of leave of absence from Live with Regis and Kelly to undergo hip replacement surgery. According to Philbin, “I’ve been limping around here; it really is painful.” Philbin’s surgery is scheduled for December 1, and is expected to out at least 6 to 8 weeks.

Hip replacement surgery seems to be a hot topic this week. Earlier today, we posted an blog about Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Recipient Little Richard having surgery on his hip. To read about hip replacement surgery, click here.

The traditional way of doing hip replacement surgery involves a 10-12 inch incision along the side of the hip. The underlying muscles are split or detached to allow exposure of the hip joint. Minimally invasive procedures are now appropriate for some patients. Minimally invasive hip replacement uses special tools inserted into one or two smaller incisions around the hip to do the procedure. There is less cutting into the muscles and other underlying tissues.

The main advantages of minimally invasive hip replacement include:

* less pain
* shorter hospitalization stays
* faster rehabilitation
* less muscle damage
* more cosmetic results

Not ever patient is eligible for this procedure. According to the American Association of Orthopedic Surgeons,candidates for minimal incision procedures are typically thinner,younger, healthier, and more motivated to have a quick recovery compared with patients who undergo the traditional surgery.

For more information: