Hip Replacement Designs – For Painless, Smooth Hip Movement

Hip replacement designs for artificial implants are based on two factors; the nature of the material used in the designs of the implant and the physical structural design. Durability of the implant design the age and the level of activity of the patient influence the hip replacement design of the artificial implant.

The artificial hip implant is consists of two basic components, the cup or socket and the ball of the implant mounted on a stem. The design of the hip implant is such that the ball of the implant fits perfectly into the cup and enables smooth, painless movement of the hip joint.

The standard artificial hip implant is made up of metal and plastic. High density polyethylene, a type of plastic highly resistant to wear is the plastic used in hips. Newer implants and replacements made of metal or ceramic are available which are more durable and recommended in younger patients with more active lifestyles.

Based on the structural design, there are two types of replacements and implants; cemented and uncemented. Cemented implants designs require bone cement such as polymethyl methacrylate to fix the implant to the underlying bone. Uncemented implants designs have rough, uneven textured surfaces which allow the surrounding bone to grow in and around the implant.

Generally, those younger than 50 years are advised uncemented hip replacements, whereas those older than 70 are advised cemented hip replacements. Hybrid implants, a combination of both cemented and uncemented implant replacements components are preferred in hips of those between 50 and 70 years of age.

While patients undergoing hip replacements with cemented prostheses are allowed to walk with full weight bearing on the hips immediately after the surgery, those with uncemented implants are advised not to walk with full weight bearing for a period of 6 to 12 weeks. The bone fo the hips needs sufficient time to grow into and around the implant for the joint to regain maximum strength in uncemented implants.

Also see; hip pain causes.

About The Author:

Dr. Bharat Sharma is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.hip-replacement-care.com. He has been working in the medical rehab field for more than a decade. Keeping up to date with techological advancements he has become a self appointe