Hip Surgery

Hip replacement surgery is one of the most successful orthopaedic operations. It is an operation performed for end stage arthritis of the hip joint, primarily to relieve pain. The most common cause of hip arthritis is osteoarthritis, though other causes include rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, avascular necrosis and developmental hip disorders. Surgery is only considered once all non-surgical treatments fail to provide sufficient relief.

Joint replacement involves removal of all arthritic surfaces from the joint, with replacement by synthetic materials. The most common components are a metal socket in the pelvis and a metal stem in the femur. There will be a bearing surface between these and it can be either a ceramic or polyethylene (a form of plastic).

Joint replacements have an excellent track record, though as with any procedure, there are recognised risks. There are general risks that are common to all surgeries, and risks specific to joint replacement. Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you in detail, at the time of consultation.

If you would like more information please visit the AAOS Patient information website.