The hip joint is a ball-and-socket joint -- the ball rotates within the socket to allow hip movement. The ball and the socket are covered with a layer of smooth cartilage. This cartilage allows for the hip joint to move freely. When the cartilage lining of the joint wears out, hip movements become stiff and painful.
Steps of a Hip Replacement
By Jonathan Cluett, M.D., About.com Guide
Updated: January 12, 2008
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board
Hip arthritis is a common cause of hip pain. If hip arthritis becomes severe, a hip replacement procedure may be recommended. Hip arthritis causes the cartilage of the joint to wear out over time.
Prev
- Diagnosis of Hip Arthritis
- Removing the Worn Out Hip Joint Ball
- Removing the Worn Out Hip Joint Socket
- Placement of the Acetabular Component
- Preparing the Femur
- Placement of the Stem
- Insertion of the Ball
- Final Hip Replacement Implant
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