What's the most important factor in getting a hip joint replacement that lasts?

There are many things affecting the life of a joint implant. The first is bone density. The bone must be strong enough to handle the surgery and support an implant. Probably the most important step is to get a good fit of the implant stem into the bone canal. This is crucial for long-term implant results.

The doctor also chooses the implant carefully. There are many different hip joint replacements available. Matching the right size, shape, and style to each patient is important.

The patient must also follow the doctor’s and the physical therapist's advice carefully. Doing too much or moving the wrong way too soon can have disastrous results.

Reference: 

Søren Kold, MD, et al. Femoral Fracture Risk in Hip Arthroplasty: Smooth Versus Toothed Instruments. In Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research. March 2003. Vol. 408. Pp. 180-188.

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