The precision-engineered shape of the femoral stem implant is crucial to obtaining long-term, pain-free results for the patient. The hip replacement implant is going to become part of the patient's body, so achieving an optimal fit within the femur is key to a successful outcome. Surgeons refer to this as "fixation."

There are two ways surgeons can affix the hip implant to the patient's bone. One way is to use acrylic bone cement, which helps to affix the stem to the femur.

The cementless alternatives sometimes use a porous coating, which helps provide for biological attachment that secures the implant. As an example, three-dimensional beaded coating creates a surface for the patient's tissue to attach, creating a strong bond with the patient's own natural tissue and the implant.