The Hana Table: A Major Advancement in Hip Replacement Surgery

In recent history, one piece of medical equipment stands out above all others for orthopedic surgeons who perform hip replacements. It’s the Hana table. Unlike a traditional, flat operating table, the Hana table allows the legs to be placed in separate stirrups so that the hips and legs can easily be repositioned during the course of a surgery.

Perfect for the Anterior Approach

The Hana table is ideal for the anterior approach to hip replacement (total hip arthroplasty). In this method, a surgeon will access and replace the hip joint through a small incision in the front of the hip, entering between hip muscles rather than having to cut through them. The advantage to the patients is less blood loss, reduced scarring and a speedier recovery.

The anterior approach is a specialized surgery requiring a specific skill set, and the Hana table allows a surgeon to best utilize those skills. Dr. Siram has used the Hana table in more than 1,000 surgeries and travels around the country to train other surgeons in its use. A benefit to the surgical process, he says, is that the table holds the patient in a consistent and stable position when needed, while also allowing the lower body and legs to be shifted as he takes X-rays of legs, hips and pelvis at different points during the surgery.

Better Component Alignment

The table is radiotranslucent, meaning that X-rays can pass through it to create an unobstructed view. A traditional operating table would block the X-rays and be seen in the image. With clearer images, Dr. Siram can review the position of the replacement components to be sure they are best aligned, and he can be sure that the legs will measure the same length after the surgery. Consistency in length allows the patient to walk with an even stride, and oftentimes after several weeks the casual observer may not be able to tell that the patient had hip surgery.

Quicker Recovery Time

With the combination of the Hana table, the anterior approach and inter-operative X-ray, Dr. Siram’s patients can be up and walking just one to two hours after surgery. They will experience less discomfort, have less need for pain medication, and can expect a quicker recovery and easier rehabilitation.

Contact the practice of orthopedic surgeon Dr. Gautum Siram to learn more about the unique advantages of a Hana table.