Fractures of the bone or cracks in the joint are not uncommon during this operation. Often, older patients with arthritis who need a joint replacement also have osteoporosis. The thinning, brittle bone breaks easily.

The treatment depends on where the break occurred and how serious it is. A small crack may only need a reduced or slowed rehab program after the operation. A large break may need screws or wires to hold it together while it heals.

Sometimes, the patient must be put in a sling. Restricting motion gives the fracture a chance to heal. This is the least desired treatment because immobility causes many other problems to occur.