Link UK Basic Instructional Hip Course

The opening session establishes the essential principles of modern hip arthroplasty from the evolution of hip replacement surgery and key milestones to different implant philosophies and their long-term outcomes. Concluding with pre-operative assessment and patient selection, this first session helps delegates appreciate the factors that influence pre-operative decision-making.

The second session follows the hip arthroplasty pathway from pre-operative planning to post-operative care. Topics include digital templating and surgical planning, patient positioning, surgical approaches, perioperative management and infection prevention. Throughout the morning, delegates are encouraged to engage with faculty through discussion and question-and-answer sessions.

In the afternoon, the focus shifts to practical skills with small-group interactive workshops. Workshop 1 provides hands-on experience implanting a cemented femoral stem, with a focus on how to teach junior colleagues the principles and technique.  Workshop 2 introduces digital pre-operative templating using the Sectra planning platform, enabling participants to develop confidence in implant sizing, positioning, and surgical planning. Workshop 3 is an interactive case discussion covering complex primary hips.

The second day builds on the core principles by exploring how excellent outcomes in hip replacement are achieved, measured and continually improved. The programme provides an international perspective, comparing practice outside the UK, including the Swedish experience of cemented hip systems, and discusses the practical considerations involved in implementing changes in clinical practice.

The practical workshops continue with a focus on acetabular reconstruction. Delegates gain experience of acetabular cup placement, reinforcing the principles of component positioning, fixation and restoration of hip biomechanics. These sessions are complemented by interactive case discussions centred on complex primary hip arthroplasty, encouraging participants to apply their knowledge to challenging clinical scenarios.

The afternoon introduces the fundamentals of revision hip arthroplasty. Delegates learn why hip replacements fail, the indications for revision surgery, and the importance of thorough pre-operative planning. Faculty provide an overview of the principles of acetabular and femoral revision, including restoring hip biomechanics and avoiding common complications. The day concludes with a femoral revision workshop and revision case discussions, providing an opportunity to consolidate learning and develop a structured approach to managing revision hip arthroplasty.

Throughout the programme, delegates are encouraged to discuss cases with faculty, ask questions and share experiences, ensuring the course remains highly interactive and clinically relevant.