Total replacement of a hip, knee or other joint (including shoulder, elbow, wrist, ankle and finger) involves replacing damaged or degraded joint surfaces with metal, high-density plastic or ceramic implants cemented to the bone. The procedure is applied to relieve pain and restore motion or mobility. Previously, joint surface replacement, particularly for the hip joint, has been more common among senior-age patients, but today procedures are increasingly popular for younger and more active patients, offering long-term resistance to wear.