Hip Replacement

The hip is commonly thought of as a "ball and socket" joint. The femoral head (ball) of the hip joint fits within the acetabulum (socket). Normally, the femoral head and acetabulum are covered by a smooth surface of articular cartilage, which allows for near frictionless motion of the joint. An injury to or disease of this articular cartilage results in degeneration and wearing away of this smooth surface. The joint surfaces become rough and irregular resulting in pain and stiffness. The end result is arthritis of the joint.

There are many different forms of arthritis, but the most common is osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis

• degenerative - commonly called "wear and tear" arthritis but can be influenced by weight, repetitive injury, genetics and other factors
• post-traumatic - traceable to a specific and usually significant injury to the joint or adjacent bone
• certain metabolic conditions can lead to development of osteoarthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis

• rheumatological/immunological condition that leads to destruction of cartilage and surrounding joint tissues

Avascular Necrosis

• condition arising from compromise of blood supply to the femoral head (ball). When blood supply is disrupted, the femoral head bone can collapse, which causes an irregular surface and debilitating pain. This can ultimately lead to severe arthritic changes. This condition can be caused by trauma, alcohol abuse, steroids, but it can also be metabolic or idiopathic.

The most common symptoms of arthritis are pain and decreased range of motion of the joint. Treatment options are aimed at decreasing the stress on the involved joint, strengthening the joint and decreasing the inflammation. If symptoms are not controlled satisfactorily with conservative treatments and these symptoms begin to interfere with normal activities of daily living, then total hip arthroplasty can be considered.