What is hip replacement?

Total hip replacement (THR) surgery, also called arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that re-forms the hip joint. At The Center for Joint Replacement, our skilled surgical teams are specialists in total hip replacement surgery.

The hip is a ball-and-socket joint, where the head of the femur (ball) moves within a cup-like (socket) of the pelvic bone. In THR, the portions of the hip joint that contain the damaged surfaces are replaced with devices that provide a smooth and painless range of motion. 


How do I know if I need hip replacement surgery?

When evaluating a patient for any form of hip replacement surgery, your physician will do the following:

•       Perform an assessment of indications for surgery

•       Conduct a clinical examination of the hip and related areas

•       Use medical imaging of the affected joints

•       Provide preoperative education and planning, if replacement is recommended

Not all evaluations lead to surgery. When alternative measures can be taken to alleviate the pain and stiffness of the affected joint, we refer the patient to an appropriate orthopedist, rheumatologist or rehabilitation program.

How does hip replacement work?

There have been several advancements in total hip replacements in recent years. The goals of THR are restoration of a functional range of motion for walking and climbing stairs, pain-free movement, joint stability, and a return to moderate recreational activities.

In THR, the “ball” of the femur (the bone that extends from the hip to the knee) is removed along with the surface layer of the “socket” in the pelvis (the two large bones that rest on the lower limbs and support the spinal column). The head of the femur, which is situated within the pelvis socket, is replaced with a metal ball and stem. This stem fits into the shaft of the femur.
The socket is replaced with a plastic or a metal-and-plastic cup.

At Hurley's Center for Joint Replacement, our expert surgeons also treat more complex hip deformities and conditions such as hip dysplasia, hip ankylosis and hip fractures.

For more information about The Center for Joint Replacement or to make an appointment, contact:

The Center for Joint Replacement
One Hurley Plaza
Flint, MI  48503
(888) 611-4462