Hip resurfacing is an alternative that preserves more bone and may allow for greater mobility. With hip resurfacing, the socket part of the implant is the same as in the total joint replacement. But instead of inserting the stem and ball device into the femur, the surgeon reshapes the bone at the head of the femur and places a metal cap over it. A larger ball is used than in total joint replacement, which should make the joint more stable and less likely to dislocate. The neck of the thighbone and part of the head are preserved, which may make revision surgery or total hip replacement easier if needed later on.
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