Award-winning Joint Center is in Kansas City, Kan.

First performed in 1960, hip replacement surgery is one of the most successful operations in medicine. Since that time, improvements in joint replacement surgical techniques and technology have greatly increased the effectiveness of total hip replacement. According to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, more than 285,000 total hip replacements are performed each year in the United States.

Most patients have a hip replacement because they are suffering with hip pain. This pain often is caused by some form of arthritis. Your doctor may recommend a hip replacement if your pain limits your everyday activities, continues while resting, limits the ability to lift your leg, or cannot be treated with anti-inflammatory medicines or physical therapy.

The decision to have hip replacement surgery should be a cooperative one made by you, your family, your primary care doctor, and your orthopedic surgeon. The process of making this decision typically begins with a referral from your doctor to an orthopedic surgeon for an initial evaluation.

Recommendations for surgery are based on your pain and disability. Most patients who undergo total hip replacement are between the ages of 50 to 80, but orthopedic surgeons evaluate patients individually. Total hip replacements have been performed successfully at all ages.

During a total hip replacement (also called total hip arthroplasty), the damaged bone and cartilage is removed and replaced with prosthetic components. These components may be made of metal, ceramic or plastic. Screws or cement are sometimes used to hold the hip socket in place.

Patients who take part in the Providence Joint Center program typically spend three to four days in the hospital, then return home to continue their recovery. Many participate in the Providence Outpatient Rehabilitation program, which can speed their return to daily activities.

For more information about hip replacement surgery at Providence Medical Center, schedule an appointment with one of the Providence orthopedic surgeons at 913-596-3940.