The hip joint is a ‘ball and socket joint’. The hip joint allows movement to occur between the thigh bone (Femur), and the hip bone (Pelvis). The Pelvis contains the ‘socket’ called the acetabulum. The ball shaped head of the femur fits into the acetabulum, forming a ball and socket joint which enables the leg to have a wide range of movements.

The outer surface of the femoral head and the inside surface of the acetabulum are covered with cartilage. The cartilage surface is a tough and very smooth material that allows the two surfaces to slide against one another during movement with ease.

Hip joint replacement surgery involves replacing the head of the femur (ball) and the acetabulum (Socket) with man made components, called prostheses.
The hip prostheses are designed to stimulate the human anatomy as closely as possible.

Depending on the damage to your hip, your surgeon may decide to give you a total hip replacement or a hip resurfacing procedure.