Hip replacement is surgery for people with severe hip damage or pain related to chronic osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or other degenerative processes involving the hip joint. . The surgical procedure for a hip replacement involves removing the damaged cartilage and bone from the hip joint and replacing them with new, man-made parts. Hip replacement surgery can relieve pain, help the hip joint work more efficiently, and improve movement.

Hip replacement is an elective surgery with relatively low mortality rates. However, elderly patients may have an increased risk for complications and health decline (morbidity) following hip replacement surgery. Better processes of care in hospitals may reduce the risk of death (mortality) from hip replacement surgery.