Hip replacement is a procedure in which the damaged end of the bone and the diseased joint cavity are both replaced with new artificial parts called as prosthesis. The aim of this procedure is to relieve pain and improve the mobility and function of the joint. Based on individual patient profile, your doctor will either cement the implant to the bone with the help of special cementing material, or leave it uncemented. In an uncemented joint, the implant is attached to the bone with the help of a porous bone. Over a period of time, the main bone grows through the porous bone, attaching the prosthesis to the main bone in a more natural manner. What are the common causes of hip pain? For diseases of bones and joints, arthritis is the most common cause of pain and debility in patients the world over. Examples of different kinds of arthritic diseases are: • Osteoarthritis is a very common form of the disease and is due to age associated wear and tear of the body and joints • Post traumatic arthritis is seen in patients post hip fracture or other such serious injury • Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease and causes destruction of the synovial membrane leading to decreased production of synovial fluid • Children with hip diseases since childhood and patients in whom the blood supply to the joint gets compromised after a fracture or dislocation, are also prone to developing severe hip pain and other complications. What happens during the procedure and the risks involved? Minimally invasive technique and computer navigation system has revolutionized the way hip replacement surgery happens today. With incision as small as 5 inches (compared to 12inches in traditional techniques) the surgeon is able to cut the diseased end of the bone and replace it with the new prosthesis. To do this, he first passes specially designed surgical instruments into the joint cavity, including a camera fitted device called as an arthroscope. Probes, which are detected by an infra- red camera, are placed on the patients’ body, and these, along with the arthroscope, project images on a computer screen. This way the surgeon is able to completely control the implants and ensures a snug fit of the prosthesis in the joint cavity. Post surgery rehabilitation Knee replacement surgeon in Delhi and also orthopedic surgeons all over the world follow certain guidelines in deciding post surgery rehabilitation plan. Whether the joint was cemented or uncemented plays a major role in not only deciding how soon the patient starts walking, but also determine how much weight can be allowed on a new joint. Typically, an uncemented joint requires 6weeks rest post surgery, while a cemented joint can be put to use almost immediately. Your doctor and physiotherapist will work in close association in deciding the movements and activities you must avoid for a defined period of time. Some such points of advice could be: • Do not sit cross legged, on low chairs/bed, or lean forward while sitting or as you sit or stand. • Do not bend more than 90 degrees or take the knee higher than hip