Hip replacement beneficial at any age

Total hip replacement is good for seniors with osteoarthritis, regardless of how old they are, Duke University researchers say. In a new study, investigators found seniors who had the surgery were twice as likely as those who didn't to gain mobility and the ability to take care of themselves. This was true whether patients were in their 60s or their 80s or 90s. The surgery also saves money for the health-care system, researchers say, because the average $4,000 to $6,000 reimbursement for the procedure costs far less than the long-term expenses of health care for the disabled.  Read full story >