What defines a hip replacement procedure?

The hip replacement procedure is defined by the removal and replacement of the acetabulum (the socket of the hip joint) and the femur head (the ball of the hip joint) with artificial surfaces. This comprehensive approach addresses both the socket and the ball to effectively restore function and alleviate pain in the hip joint, particularly in cases of severe arthritis, fractures, or joint destruction. By replacing both components, the procedure aims to create a new, smoothly functioning joint that mimics the natural movement.

The other options do not accurately describe a hip replacement. Fusion involves permanently joining bones together and does not allow for normal joint movement, which is contrary to the goal of a hip replacement. Replacing only the femur head would not solve issues in the acetabulum if it were damaged. Lastly, repairing ligaments does not replace the joint surfaces and would not provide the same functional results as a full replacement.