The use of metal or plastic components to replace a joint or part of a joint. Arthroplasty was first used in the 1930s to replace diseased hip-joints and has been routinely used since the 1960s, enabling thousands of people, especially the older generation, to resume normal life free from pain and disability. Replacement of other joints – for instance, knees, shoulders and elbows – has now become routine. (See JOINTS, DISEASES OF and diagram.)

Arthroplasty of right hip (front view) showing how the artificial metal head fits into the metal socket set into the ischial part of the pelvis.