According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, more than 231,000 total hip replacements are performed each year in the United States. About 85% of artificial hip joints last 20 years before the components begin to break down and the joint needs to be replaced. In a hip replacement surgery, an artificial hip joint is implanted. Currently, there are two ways to perform hip replacement surgery: either traditionally, or using a minimally invasive procedure.

During standard hip replacement surgery, the “ball” and “socket” of the joint is removed and replaced with new, artificial joints. After surgery, the patient stays in the hospital for four to six days, where weeks-long physical therapy begins. It should be noted that the replacement hip joint is meant only to aid with day-to-day movement; those with artificial hips should avoid sports or heavy activity.