Total hip replacement is a surgical procedure in which parts of an arthritic or damaged joint are removed and replaced with a metal, plastic or ceramic device called a prosthesis. The prosthesis is designed to replicate the movement of a normal, healthy joint. The damaged ball (the upper end of the femur) is replaced with a metal ball attached to a metal stem that is fitted into the femur, and a plastic socket is implanted into the pelvis, replacing the damaged socket.
Common cause of chronic hip pain and disability are Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and traumatic arthritis that make everyday activities painful. Your hip may be damaged by arthritis, a fracture, or other conditions, common activities such as walking or getting in and out of a chair may be painful and difficult. Your hip may be stiff, and it may be hard to put on your shoes and socks. You may even feel uncomfortable while resting. Hip pain that continues while resting, Stiffness in a hip that limits the ability to move and pain is not relieved by anti-inflammatory drugs, physical therapy, or walking supports. You need a total hip replacement.
The damaged ball of hip joint is replaced with a ceramic or metal ball which fits on top of a titanium stem that fits into the femoral canal. The acetabulum is replaced with a metal shell with a highly cross linked polyethylene or a ceramic liner.

x ray pelvis showing destroyed femoral heads.

Components used in total hip replacement: an acetabular shell, a plastic/ceramic liner ,a ceramic/metal head and a titanium stem.