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 that allows the leg a wide range and variety of movement. A healthy hip joint allows the leg to move freely within its range of motion, while supporting the upper body and absorbing the impact that results from activities such as walking and running.

In the case of an arthritic hip, the damaged ball (the upper end of the femur) is replaced by a metal or ceramic ball attached to a metal stem fitted into the femur. The plastic or ceramic socket is implanted into the pelvis, replacing the damaged socket. Bone cement may be used to fix the prosthesis (artificial joint) into the bone. Usually for younger patients, the prosthesis may be implanted without cement.

You will usually be given a state of the art prosthesis by DePuy Johnson & Johnson. With more then 15 years of clinical follow up, Johnson & Johnson hip and knee systems show outstanding long-term clinical performance.

Reference: www.hipreplacement.com