Hip replacement surgery
Hip replacement surgery
Normal hip joint
Osteoarthritis of the hip
Osteoarthritis is the most common reason for hip replacement. In osteoarthritis, the cartilage that protects and cushions the joints breaks down over time. As the cartilage wears down, the bone surfaces rub against each other. This damages the tissue and bone, which then causes pain. The joint space in this hip joint is narrowed due to cartilage loss and bone spur formation.
Removal of cartilage from the hip socket and femur
Damaged cartilage and bone are removed from the hip socket (acetabulum) and the upper end of the femur.
Placement of hip socket component
Hip socket (acetabular) component is placed.
Placement of femoral component
Femoral component is placed.
Completed hip replacement
Hip replacement is complete.
Current as of: May 1, 2026
Author: WebMD Ignite Staff
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