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In a hip replacement, the upper leg bone, or femur, is separated from the hip socket, and the damaged head is removed (A). A reamer is used to prepare the socket for the prosthesis (B). A file is used to create a tunnel in the femur for the prosthesis (C). The hip and socket prostheses are cemented in place (D), and finally connected (E). (Illustration by Argosy.)

In this patient, a fall has resulted in fractures in the bones of the elbow (B). To repair the fracture, an incision is made in the elbow area (C), and the bones are fixed with screws to aid proper healing (D). (Illustration by GGS Inc.)

Degeneration of the joint around the prosthesis causes pain for some patients who have undergone hip replacement (A). To repair it, an incision is made in the hip and the old prosthesis is removed (B). Bone grafts may be planted in the hip, and a new prosthesis is attached (C). (Illustration by GGS Inc.)