Osteoarthritis of the hip is one of the most widespread alterations of the hip: it is a condition that causes intense pain due to a stiffening of the joint itself. Thus, especially with advancing age, these stresses can jeopardize its functioning. The hip joint is subjected to high daily stresses, having to bear the weight of the upper part of the body. The smooth and spherical head of the femur fits perfectly into the natural seat of the acetabulum, which is a cup-shaped cavity the whole joint is wrapped in very resistant ligaments that make the joint stable. The hip is one of the most important joints that support our body, having the task of joining the femurs with the pelvis. After more than 50 years of evolution, in term of designs and materials, the actual wear rate of the most common implants is low, allowing us to sensibly reduce the risk related to the widespread debris distribution in the human body. Particular attention has been given to the tribological behavior of the biomaterials, as friction and wear have been key aspects to improve as hip implants evolve. We analyzed the scientific literature, collecting information on the material behavior and the human-body response to it. A commentary on the evolution and actual existing hip prostheses is proposed. In this review, we analyze, from international literature, the specific characteristics required for biomaterials used in hip joint arthroplasty, i.e., being biocompatible, resisting heavy stress, opposing low frictional forces to sliding and having a low wear rate. Hip implants can be realized with different combination of materials, such as metals, ceramics and polymers. This article aims to review the current state of the art of the biomaterials used for hip implants. Replacement surgery of hip joint consists of the substitution of the joint with an implant able to recreate the articulation functionality.
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