When is the right time to resurface?

With the recent approval of 2 metal-on-metal hip resurfacing devices in the United States, hip resurfacing is being performed more commonly. As with most orthopedic procedures, appropriate indications are the key to successful outcomes and avoiding complications such as femoral neck fracture. A review of the literature suggests that optimal results, and the lower risk of early failure, are obtained in men with osteoarthritis who are younger than age 55 years. This article reviews general considerations for choosing appropriate candidates for metal-on-metal hip resurfacing, including relative and suggested contraindications to the procedure.