Arthroplasty, also known as joint replacement is a surgical procedure by removing the damaged joint and replacing it with an artificial joint. 

The artificial joint which looks and moves just like a natural joint can be metal, ceramic or heavy-duty plastic.

Any joint in your body can be replaced by a surgeon, however the hip replacement and knee replacement are the two most popular arthroplasty procedures.

A doctor might advise arthroplasty if a patient has:

• Joint discomfort that is not relieved by non-surgical methods such as rest, physical therapy (PT), medication, bracing, injections, and others
• Joint stiffness and restricted mobility that make performing daily activities challenging or impossible
• Inflammation or swelling that doesn't go away after taking medicine or changing one's lifestyle.