Total Hip Replacement
The Procedure
The pain in the hip from arthritis develops when the smooth cushion on the ends of the bones (the cartilage) becomes damaged and wears out. Losing this cushion in the joint leads to the pain and stiffness that comes with arthritis. A hip replacement involves removing the ends of the bones and placing metal and plastic implants (a “hip prosthesis”) within the bones where the joint is worn out. The prosthesis then performs the function of the hip joint. The metal components are usually implanted in such a way that the bone grows into the prosthesis to secure it in place. Occasionally, a bone cement is used to bond the implant to the bone. The metal that is typically used is titanium.
Should I think about hip replacement?
You might benefit from hip replacement if:
Your hip has been damaged by arthritis or a past injury.
You have bad hip pain that gets in the way of daily life.
Rest, medications, exercises and physical therapy, and injections have not helped enough.
You want to recover mobility and improve your quality of life.