Who might be a candidate for artificial hip replacement?
The most common condition that results in the need for hip replacement surgery is arthritis. Osteoarthritis, a degenerative, joint disease that affects mostly middle-aged and older adults, causes the breakdown of joint cartilage and adjacent bone in the hips. Rheumatoid arthritis, which causes inflammation of the synovial membrane and results in excessive synovial fluid, can lead to pain and stiffness. Traumatic arthritis, arthritis due to injury, can cause damage to the articular cartilage of the hip. The decision to replace the painful hip with an artificial one is a decision made by the patient and physician. Other, alternative treatments may first be used, including assistive walking devices and anti-inflammatory medications.
