What is the surgical procedure that replaces a hip joint with a prosthesis?

The surgical procedure that involves replacing a hip joint with a prosthesis is known as total hip replacement. This procedure is specifically designed to alleviate pain and restore function in patients suffering from hip joint damage due to conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or fractures. During the operation, the damaged cartilage and bone of the hip joint are removed and replaced with artificial components, which include a cup that fits into the hip socket and a stem that goes into the femur.

Total hip replacement is distinct because it directly addresses issues within the hip joint, making it a targeted solution for hip-related ailments. In contrast, nephrectomy, appendectomy, and urological surgery pertain to entirely different organ systems and conditions, such as the removal of a kidney, appendix, or surgical interventions in the urinary tract, respectively. These other procedures do not involve the hip joint or its replacement, which further solidifies total hip replacement as the correct answer in this context.