What is happening with hip replacement?

Hard lessons for device manufacturers, regulators and surgeons in the wake of a market recall

Hip replacement is one of the most cost-effective surgical procedures undertaken today. It relieves pain and restores mobility and independence for almost 35 000 individuals each year in Australia. However, recent publicity in Australia and overseas about the recall of hip prostheses from the market has created uncertainty and anxiety in patients who have undergone or are about to undergo hip replacement or other types of joint replacement surgery. Medical practitioners need to have a clear understanding of the issues and their implications so they can assist and advise patients appropriately.