Harvard Health Blog How long does a joint replacement last? POSTED MARCH 18, 2019, 10:30 AM Robert H. Shmerling, MD, Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing Joint replacement surgery represents one of the biggest and most life-changing advances in modern medicine. It has meant the difference between disability from crippling arthritis and nearly normal mobility for millions of people in recent decades. The hip and knee are, by far, the most commonly replaced joints, and they have the most reliable results. In the US each year, more than 300,000 hips and 700,000 knees are replaced, and the results are generally good. But every time a joint is replaced, an important question looms: how long will it last? Learn more »

Get your copy of Total Hip Replacement If you are wondering whether total hip replacement is for you, this Harvard Medical School guide can help you to make that important decision in consultation with your primary care doctor and orthopedic specialist. We’ll explain how your hips work and why people end up needing new ones. Inside Total Hip Replacement, you’ll also learn how artificial joints work, the many different types of hip implants, the alternatives to surgery, the risks and complications of surgery, and how to make a safe and full recovery.

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Total Hip Replacement Featured content: • Do you need a new hip? • Why hips wear out • Hip anatomy • Deciding about hip replacement • Next steps before surgery •  ... and more! Click here to read more »