In osteoarthritis, the cartilage that protects and cushions the joints breaks down over time. As the cartilage wears down, the bone surfaces rub against each other. This damages the tissue and bone, which then causes pain. The joint space in this hip joint is narrowed due to cartilage loss and bone spur formation.

Removal of cartilage from the hip socket (acetabulum) and removal of the upper end of the femur

Placement of metal acetabular component

Placement of metal femoral component

Completed hip replacement