Hip
Total hip replacement surgery involves removing the diseased portion of the hip joint. An artificial hip, known as a prosthesis, replaces it. A cup replaces the worn hip socket and a ball on a stem that is inserted into the thighbone replaces the worn head of the thighbone (femur). These parts are most commonly made up of metal, plastic or ceramic and come in various sizes and designs.
There are two methods of securing the new prosthesis in place. One method uses bone cement and is called the "cemented" method. The other type is secured in place by the body's own bone growth and is called the "cementless" or "ingrowth" method. Your surgeon will help you decide which is best for you and will discuss this with you before surgery. There are times, however, when the decision can be made only at the time of your operation.