Jesse Silverman, M.D. performs advanced surgeries

DENVILLE -In a surgical first for Saint Clare’s Health System, Jesse Silverman, M.D., a regional orthopedic surgeon based in Denville, recently introduced a new minimally invasive alternative to traditional hip replacement surgery at Saint Clare’s. The procedure, known as a “two incision” minimally invasive hip replacement, is normally performed at larger university-based or research hospitals and offers quicker, more comfortable rehabilitation and recovery as well as a host of other benefits. “This procedure is great news for patients with arthritic hip pain, who have put off hip replacement surgery because of the lengthy and sometimes painful rehabilitation required with traditional surgery,” said Silverman. “This procedure is part of a trend towards joint replacement procedures that are increasingly less invasive, optimize comfort and recovery for patients, and return them to their normal daily activity as quickly as possible. Patients who have had the ‘two incision’ minimally invasive procedure are amazed at how soon they are getting around after surgery. I am pleased to be able to bring this revolutionary procedure, and its significant benefits, to Saint Clare’s and its patients.” As one of only five physicians in the state actively performing this procedure, Silverman uses two small incisions, approximately 1 ½ inches to 2 inches long, rather than the single, eight to 10-inch incision common with traditional hip replacement. Instead of cutting and traumatizing the muscles, ligaments, and tendons to gain access to the hip joint, the surgeon performing the minimally invasive procedure separates the tissues resulting in less bleeding and overall discomfort. Unlike traditional surgery, which calls for a three-day minimum hospital stay and the potential of time at a rehabilitation facility, the less-invasive surgical approach requires a one to two-day hospital stay and patients usually are discharged home. In addition to a faster and less painful recovery, the minimally invasive two incision procedure involves less blood loss and a faster return to normal daily activity. Silverman, who has been appointed chairman of the Section of Orthopedics at Saint Clare’s, received special training in this advanced procedure through The Zimmer Institute, the state-of-the-art training center of Zimmer, Inc., a leading developer and provider of prosthetic joints. The procedure uses the same high-quality, clinically proven implants that are used in traditional hip replacement. Specialized instruments allow the surgeon to see and access the hip joint in a much smaller area, limiting the damage to muscles and connecting tissues. According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, about 30 million Americans suffer from osteoarthritis, a deterioration of the cartilage in the hip joint, resulting in stiffness and pain. Nearly 300,000 hip replacements are performed annually in the United States. The “two incision” minimally invasive hip replacement is usually a viable option for many patients who are otherwise candidates for the traditional procedure. Factors that can rule out the new procedure may include obesity and prior replacement of the same hip. In most cases, successful total hip replacement relieves the pain and stiffness of osteoarthritis, but requires some lifelong lifestyle changes. Even after patients have fully recovered, contact sports or activities that put excessive strain on the hips may be limited or curtailed entirely on the advice of a physician. At Saint Clare’s Center for Joint Replacement, located at Saint Clare’s Hospital/Denville, joint replacement surgery patients receive coordinated care that emphasizes education and teamwork. The Center focuses on an integrated program of surgery, rehabilitation, and recovery, with staff that provide a high level of personal care in a supportive, family atmosphere. Pre-op training, improved operating room processes, and a dedicated post-op unit, that promotes healing in a wellness environment, are the main features of the Center. Through education, patients learn how to be active participants in their own recovery.