[Endoprostheses of the hip joint].

In many cases rheumatoid arthritis leads to functional disturbances and deformities of the hip joint despite intensive conservative treatment. Joint replacement becomes necessary to preserve mobility and independence. The choice of implant and fixation system depends on the results of clinical and radiological examinations and the individual patient situation (e.g. age, bone quality, deformities of adjacent joints). The procedure, pre-operative and postoperative treatment, all require special expertise. If possible surgical procedures should be carried out in specialized surgical institutions by surgeons experienced in rheumatology and orthopedics.