Hip joint replacement surgery is a common orthopedic procedure designed to treat severe hip joint damage caused by arthritis, fractures, or other conditions. The hip joint consists of the femoral head, which fits into the acetabular socket of the pelvis, forming a ball-and-socket joint that allows for smooth movement.
Hip replacement surgery becomes necessary when the hip joint is severely damaged by various conditions. Osteoarthritis is the most common cause, where cartilage wears away causing bone-on-bone contact and severe pain. Rheumatoid arthritis can also destroy joint surfaces. Hip fractures, especially in elderly patients, may require replacement if the bone cannot heal properly. Other conditions include avascular necrosis and bone tumors.
Hip replacement surgery uses artificial components to replace the damaged parts of the hip joint. The acetabular cup replaces the damaged socket in the pelvis and is typically made of metal with a plastic or ceramic liner. The femoral head is a ball-shaped component that replaces the top of the thighbone. The femoral stem is inserted into the hollow center of the thighbone to anchor the new joint. These components are made from biocompatible materials like titanium, ceramic, and specialized plastics.
The hip replacement surgical procedure involves several critical steps. First, the surgeon makes an incision to access the hip joint and carefully exposes the damaged area. Next, the damaged bone and cartilage are removed from both the socket and the top of the thighbone. The surgeon then prepares the bone surfaces and installs the new artificial components - first the acetabular cup into the pelvis, then the femoral stem into the thighbone, and finally attaches the femoral head. The incision is then closed with sutures or staples.