Hip Surgery

Total Hip Replacement

Total hip replacement (total hip arthroplasty) is one of the most successful and reliable operations in all of orthopedic surgery. It replaces both the ball (femoral head) and socket (acetabulum) of the hip joint with biocompatible metal, ceramic, and plastic components, eliminating bone-on-bone pain and restoring smooth joint function.

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Recovery

Walk with assistance day of surgery; return to most daily activities within 2-6 weeks.

Clinical Focus

Complete femoral and acetabular resurfacing, mechanical axis restoration, durable bearing surface selection.

Ideal Candidate

Patients with end-stage hip arthritis affecting the entire joint who have exhausted conservative treatments.

Understanding Your Procedure

In-Depth: Total Hip Replacement

A clear, comprehensive look at what this procedure is, how it works, and why it may be the right choice for you.

The hip is a ball-and-socket joint. The ball is the at the top of the thigh bone, and the socket is the in the pelvis. In end-stage arthritis, the smooth cartilage that covers both surfaces wears away completely, causing bone to rub against bone. This produces the deep groin pain, stiffness, and limping that bring patients to surgical evaluation. removes the damaged and resurfaces the . A metal or ceramic ball on a metal stem replaces the , and a metal cup with a plastic or ceramic liner replaces the . These components recreate a smooth, pain-free joint surface that can last 20-30 years or more.Dr. Sobh uses advanced techniques to maximize longevity: precise cup positioning using intra-operative imaging or robotic assistance, premium bearing surfaces selected based on your age and activity level, and meticulous leg-length equalization. The choice of surgical approach—anterior, anterolateral, or posterior—is tailored to your anatomy and surgical history, ensuring the safest and most effective procedure for your specific case.

Total Hip Replacement anatomical illustration

Total Hip Replacement — illustrated overview of the surgical approach and implant placement.

20-30+

Years Implant Lifespan

90%+

Patient Satisfaction

24h

Walking Post-Op

<1%

Complication Rate

What Makes This Approach Different

Multiple Approach Options

Unlike surgeons who only perform one approach, Dr. Sobh is trained in direct anterior, anterolateral, and posterior approaches, selecting the best one for your anatomy and surgical history.

Premium Bearing Surfaces

Ceramic-on- and options are selected based on your age, activity level, and anatomy to maximize longevity and minimize wear.

Leg-Length Equalization

Dr. Sobh uses intra-operative imaging and careful templating to ensure your legs are equal length after surgery, a common concern for hip replacement patients.

Multimodal Pain Protocol

A combination of nerve blocks, long-acting local anesthetics, and non-opioid medications keeps patients comfortable while minimizing or eliminating opioid use.

Clinical information reviewed and edited by Dr. Ali H. Sobh, MD, board-certified orthopedic surgeon. Content synthesized from peer-reviewed orthopedic literature, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) guidelines, and Dr. Sobh's fellowship training at Rush University Medical Center. Last updated 2025.

Watch & Learn

Understanding Total Hip Replacement

These medically accurate 3D animations walk you through the complete total hip replacement procedure — from incision and removal of the damaged femoral head to placement of the acetabular cup and femoral stem.

3D Animation3:25 min

Total Hip Replacement Surgery

Nucleus Medical Media's classic 3D animation depicts total hip replacement surgery: incision, exposure of the hip joint, placement of the acetabular component (socket), removal of the arthritic femoral head, and placement of the femoral prosthesis (ball).

Source: Nucleus Medical Media — 2.5M+ views

Modern Animation2:02 min

Total Hip Replacement — Modern Overview

ViewMedica's modern 3D animation shows how the damaged hip joint is replaced with implants that move like the ball and socket of a healthy hip — removing the damaged femoral head, preparing the socket, and placing the stem, ball, and liner.

Source: ViewMedica — peer-reviewed patient education

How Dr. Sobh's approach may differ

These animations show a standard total hip replacement. Dr. Sobh may use advanced techniques such as the direct anterior approach, robotic-assisted surgery (MAKO), or customized implant positioning based on your unique anatomy.

Videos embedded from YouTube for educational purposes. Dr. Dr. Ali H. Sobh, MD reviews all educational content on this page. Animation sources: Nucleus Medical Media and ViewMedica.

Interactive Education

See How Your Joint Works

Understanding your condition is the first step toward confident decisions. Use this interactive visualizer to explore the anatomy of the hip joint, compare a healthy joint with an arthritic one, and see exactly what total hip replacement restores.

1
Toggle states to compare healthy, arthritic, and post-surgical joints.
2
Tap the dots to learn about each anatomical structure.
3
Watch the motion to see how the joint moves during activity.

Interactive Joint Visualizer

Explore how total hip replacement works

For Education

Front View

100%

Tap the dots to explore the joint anatomy

Arthritic / Damaged

Illustration for educational purposes. Not a diagnostic image.

Recognizing the Signs

Common Symptoms

Many patients live with joint pain for years before seeking treatment. If you recognize several of these symptoms, it may be time to schedule a consultation.

When to seek care

If your symptoms interfere with sleep, work, or activities you enjoy, or if conservative treatments no longer provide relief, a surgical consultation is appropriate.

Deep groin, outer hip, or buttock pain that worsens with weight-bearing

Stiffness in the hip making daily tasks like putting on shoes difficult

Pain radiating down the thigh toward the knee

Limping or favoring the affected leg

Decreased hip range of motion—inability to cross legs or get in/out of cars

Pain that disrupts sleep

No lasting relief from NSAIDs, physical therapy, or injections

Dr. Ali H. Sobh, MD

Board Certified & Fellowship-Trained Orthopedic Surgeon

Rush University Medical Center Fellowship

Hour Detroit Top Doc Award 2025

900+ 5-Star Google Reviews

Why Dr. Sobh for This Procedure

Fellowship-Trained Expertise in Total Hip Replacement

Dr. Sobh's fellowship at Rush University Medical Center included comprehensive training in total hip using multiple surgical approaches. He selects the optimal approach—direct anterior, anterolateral, or posterior—based on each patient's anatomy, body habitus, and surgical history. His expertise in advanced bearing surfaces (ceramic-on-, ceramic-on-ceramic) and precise acetabular cup positioning ensures maximum longevity and stability. He pairs surgical precision with a multimodal pain management protocol that minimizes opioid use and accelerates recovery.

Meet Dr. Sobh Patient Testimonials

Conditions Treated

Is Total Hip Replacement Right for You?

Dr. Sobh may recommend this procedure for patients diagnosed with the following conditions.

Severe hip osteoarthritis (entire joint)Rheumatoid arthritis of the hipPost-traumatic hip arthritisAvascular necrosis (AVN) with femoral head collapseDevelopmental hip dysplasia with secondary arthritisFailed prior hip surgery requiring complete replacement

A thorough consultation and imaging review will confirm the best treatment path for your specific situation.

Are You a Candidate?

Candidacy for Total Hip Replacement

Dr. Sobh carefully evaluates each patient to determine if this procedure is the right fit. Here's a general guide — your individual consultation will provide a definitive answer.

Good Candidate

Patients with end-stage hip arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid, post-traumatic, or AVN) whose pain has not responded to at least 3-6 months of conservative treatment (NSAIDs, physical therapy, injections, weight management).

Good Candidate

Patients with severe hip stiffness, limping, or sleep disruption that significantly limits daily activities and quality of life.

May Not Be a Candidate

Patients with early-stage arthritis that responds well to conservative treatments should delay surgery. Patients with active hip infection need to resolve the infection first.

May Not Be a Candidate

Patients with severe vascular disease, uncontrolled medical conditions, or very poor bone quality may need medical optimization before surgery.

Technology & Techniques

Advanced Technology Used in Your Surgery

Dr. Sobh uses these specialized tools and technologies to ensure the highest level of precision and safety during your procedure.

Tapered Femoral Stems

Modern cementless tapered stems integrate directly with your bone (osseointegration), providing long-term fixation without cement.

Porous Acetabular Cups

Titanium cups with porous coatings promote bone ingrowth for durable, cementless fixation.

Premium Bearing Surfaces

Ceramic-on-polyethylene and ceramic-on-ceramic options offer excellent wear resistance and implant longevity of 20-30+ years.

Intra-Operative Imaging

Fluoroscopy or robotic assistance confirms cup position, leg length, and offset during surgery for precise results.

How the Surgery Works

Understanding Your Surgical Journey

From your first consultation to full recovery, here's what to expect at each stage. Dr. Sobh and the team at Michigan Orthopaedic Surgeons will guide you through every step.

Pre-Operative Planning

X-rays and templating determine size and alignment. Dr. Sobh selects the optimal surgical approach based on your anatomy and surgical history.

Joint Resurfacing

The damaged is removed and the is resurfaced. A metal cup with a liner is placed in the socket, and a metal stem with a ceramic or metal ball replaces the .

Implant Positioning & Leg Length

Dr. Sobh uses intra-operative imaging to confirm cup position, leg length, and joint stability, ensuring your legs are equal and the is optimally positioned.

Rapid Recovery Protocol

begins the day of surgery. Most patients walk with assistance within hours and are discharged home within 24-48 hours with a structured therapy plan.

Recovery Timeline

Your Path Back to Activity

Recovery timelines vary by individual and procedure complexity. Dr. Sobh will provide a personalized rehabilitation plan. Here's a general guide to what most patients experience.

0-24 hours

Day of Surgery

Stand and walk with a walker or cane. Begin gentle hip movements. Pain managed with multimodal protocol.

1-2 weeks

Early Recovery

Walk with a walker or cane. Return to light household activities. Physical therapy focuses on gait and hip stability.

2-6 weeks

Progressive Activity

Transition off walking aids. Resume driving and office work. Therapy advances to strengthening and balance.

6-12 weeks

Full Recovery

Return to low-impact sports, golf, swimming, and cycling. Most patients report near-complete pain relief.

Comparing Your Options

Total Hip Replacement vs. Alternatives

Understanding how total hip replacement compares to other treatment options helps you make an informed decision. Dr. Sobh will discuss all viable options during your consultation.

Direct Anterior Hip Replacement

The is a specific way of performing through the front of the hip, without cutting muscles. can also be performed through posterior or anterolateral approaches, which may be preferred for certain anatomies or revision cases.

Hip Resurfacing

Resurfacing preserves the rather than replacing it with a stem. It's only suitable for a narrow patient population (younger, active males with good bone quality) and carries unique risks including femoral neck fracture and metal ion concerns.

Hip Arthroscopy

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure to address labral tears, impingement, or loose bodies. It cannot reverse advanced arthritis and is appropriate for early-stage disease, not end-stage arthritis requiring total replacement.

Patient Journey Tip

Total hip replacement is one of the most successful operations in all of medicine, with satisfaction rates above 90%. Most patients go home within 24-48 hours. Arrange for a friend or family member to help at home for the first few days, and prepare your recovery space on one floor to minimize stairs.

Benefits

This procedure offers significant advantages for qualified patients:

Eliminates bone-on-bone hip pain
Restores hip mobility and range of motion
Corrects leg length discrepancy
Improves walking distance and quality of life
Durable implants lasting 20-30+ years
High satisfaction rate (>90%)

Potential Risks

As with any surgery, there are potential risks. Dr. Sobh takes extensive measures to minimize them:

Infection (rare, <1%)
Blood clots (DVT/PE)—prevented with medication and early walking
Leg length discrepancy
Implant loosening over time
Dislocation (lower with anterior approach)
Anesthesia-related risks

Important

This information is for educational purposes only. Your individual risks depend on your health history. Dr. Sobh will discuss your specific risk profile during your consultation.

Patient Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions patients ask about total hip replacement.

How long does a total hip replacement last?

Modern hip implants are designed to last 20-30 years or more. Dr. Sobh uses premium bearing surfaces and precise alignment techniques to maximize longevity. Factors like weight, activity level, and positioning affect lifespan.

What's the difference between total hip replacement and direct anterior hip replacement?

Direct anterior hip replacement is a specific surgical approach to —accessing the joint from the front without cutting muscles. can also be performed through posterior or anterolateral approaches. Dr. Sobh selects the best approach for your anatomy.

Will I need opioids after surgery?

Dr. Sobh uses an advanced multimodal pain protocol combining nerve blocks, long-acting local anesthetics, and non-opioid medications. Most patients use minimal or no opioids and transition to over-the-counter pain relievers within 1-2 weeks.

When can I drive after total hip replacement?

Most patients can drive 2-4 weeks after surgery, once they have stopped taking opioid medications and can safely operate the pedals. If the left hip is operated on and you drive an automatic, you may drive sooner.

Medically ReviewedLast reviewed: August 14, 2026

Dr. Ali H. Sobh, MD

Board Certified & Fellowship-Trained Orthopedic Surgeon — Minimally-Invasive Hip & Knee Replacement Specialist

This procedure page was clinically reviewed and approved by Dr. Ali H. Sobh, MD, a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in direct anterior hip replacement and MAKO robotic knee surgery. Dr. Sobh graduated with high honors from Wayne State University School of Medicine and completed his adult reconstruction fellowship at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago. He practices at Michigan Orthopaedic Surgeons (MOS) with offices in Royal Oak and Southfield, Michigan.

View Full Credentials Editorial Standards

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Individual results and recovery timelines vary. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Sobh to discuss your specific condition and treatment options.

Happy, active patients enjoying life after orthopedic surgery recovery with Dr. Ali H. Sobh

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Ready to Take the Next Step?

Schedule a personalized consultation with Dr. Sobh to discuss whether total hip replacement is right for you. Our team will help coordinate your visit, insurance verification, and pre-operative planning.

Book an Appointment Call (833) 667-3627