The History of Total Hip Arthroplasty

Lee, Joong Myung

Abstract

Because of increases in degenerative diseases and trauma of the hip joint, diverse treatment modalities have been developed. Because of this increase in demand in the field of hip joint medicine, the need for scientific studies in orthopaedics have been considered to be more important. In fact, currently, total hip arthroplasty is the most commonly performed reconstructive hip procedure. Total hip arthroplasty evolved as a result of many improvements in the design of a femoral head prosthesis, the availability of suitable component materials and manufacturing techniques, a better understanding of hip mechanics, and the need for resurfacing the acetabulum. An awareness of the history of hip arthroplasty is necessary to appreciate not only its current status, but also its future. This article discusses the history of and current trends in hip arthroplasty including implant design, materials, and the renewed interest in resurfacing procedures, minimally invasive techniques and robotic surgery.