Hip and knee replacement are two of the most commonly performed operations in orthopedic surgery. Both procedures are very successful at eliminating pain, correcting deformity and improving patient mobility so patients can regain quality of life and get back to the activities they enjoy.

During hip replacement, the damaged ball of the hip ball and socket joint is removed and replaced with a metal or ceramic ball that attaches to a stem that fits into the femur. The prosthesis is usually coated with a special material into which the bone will grow over time. In some instances, however, the prosthesis is cemented into the bone. The socket portion of the ball and socket joint is also replaced with a metal cup that is placed into the pelvis. A plastic liner is then snapped into the metal cup and rotates with the new ball on the end of the femoral stem. The prostheses and implants come in a variety of shapes and sizes that can be tailored to the individual.