Hip replacement surgery

INTRODUCTION
A painful, stiff hip can keep you from doing the simple things in life, even walking without pain. Today we can replace your hip, thanks to breakthroughs in surgical techniques and materials. Total hip replacement is a safe, reliable procedure that can relieve your pain and stiffness and return you to most of the activities that you enjoy.

WHAT IS ARTHRITIS?
Osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease affects the cartilage lining on the end of bones. The cartilage becomes worn and no longer allows smooth movement of the joint. The bony surfaces may touch as your joint works causing a grinding feeling. When this happens pain, stiffness, swelling and functional disability is a frequent consequence. Total joint replacement surgery is frequently used to treat severe osteoarthritis.
Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease of the tissue (synovium) which lines the inside of joints. Synovium normally produces a slippery fluid which lubricates the joint. In Rheumatoid Arthritis the synovial lining is abnormal. It becomes thicker and secretes abnormally large amounts of poor quality joint fluid which also contains destructive enzymes which are able to dissolve bone, cartilage and tendons. The result is a joint which is inflamed (hot, swollen and painful), stiff and deformed. The initiating cause is not known, but is thought to be an allergic reaction against the bodyís own defenses.
Trauma such as a fall or accident, may cause premature cartilage breakdown, severe pain and disability. In some cases, a total joint replacement may be necessary to correct these problems.