What are the primary indications for total hip arthroplasty in osteoarthritis?

• A. Pain relief only.
• B. Relief of intractable hip pain and restoration of function when conservative treatments fail and function is limited.
• C. Surgery before trying conservative treatments.
• D. For cosmetic improvement.

Answer: (B)

Total hip arthroplasty in osteoarthritis is considered when the hip pain is severe and disabling and has not been relieved by comprehensive nonoperative care, with resulting substantial impairment in daily function. The goal is to both relieve pain and restore function so the patient can return to meaningful activities and improve quality of life. Surgical decision-making centers on the patient’s symptoms and functional impact, not just how the joint looks on X‑ray, and only after nonoperative treatments have been tried and found inadequate.

Solely aiming for pain relief is an incomplete description, because improving or preserving function is a core part of what the procedure achieves. Surgery before exhausting conservative options or for cosmetic purposes does not align with standard indications.