Conclusions

It is hoped that this paper has given you some understanding as to the expected benefits, risks and possible alternatives to total hip replacements as well as the new developments of cementless replacements. I hope this will have answered some questions for you, but it probably has generated other questions. Please do not hesitate to discuss these with your surgeon.

If you are considering having this surgery, you have a difficult decision ahead of you. You can best make this decision by learning as much as possible about the procedure as well as the various alternatives. Frequently the doctor is asked what he recommends in an individual case. A recommendation can be made but the decision must be made by the patient. Please take the time to understand and educate yourself about the problems and various solutions. Only as an informed patient can you make an intelligent decision.