A hip replacement is a surgical operation where an artificial hip joint is used to replace the problematic hip joint.

The surface layer of the socket where the head of the femur (the bone that runs from the hip to the knee) rests is also removed during a total hip replacement (called the acetabulum).

The hip joint is situated where the acetabulum and upper end of the femur meet. The femur, often known as the thigh bone, resembles a long stem that ends in a ball. The acetabulum, or hip bones socket or cup-like structure, is located in the pelvis. A wide range of motion, including sitting, standing, walking, and other daily activities, is possible thanks to this "ball and socket setup.

• A metal ball and stem are used in place of the femur's head, which is located inside the pelvic socket.
• The femur's shaft can accommodate this stem. A plastic or metal cup is used in place of the socket.
• The femur head is covered with metal rather than being removed. A metal socket is used in place of the original.

The hip joint's damaged bone tissue and cartilage are removed by the surgeon during hip replacement. The hip's healthy areas are unaltered. The surgeon will then insert new, synthetic components into the acetabulum (the socket) and the head of the femur (the ball). The materials used to construct the new hip permit a smooth, natural motion of the joint. An average hip replacement procedure takes two to three hours.