Total joint replacement is a surgical procedure in which parts of an arthritic
or damaged joint are removed and replaced with a metal, plastic, or
ceramic device called a prosthesis. The prosthesis is designed to replicate
the movement of a normal, healthy joint. Hip and knee replacements are the
most commonly performed joint replacements, but replacement surgery
can be performed on other joints, as well, including the ankle, wrist, shoulder,
and elbow.