The Total Hip Replacement, or Artificial Hip, was invented by British surgeons after World War Two. It became the basis of a multi-billion global industry in joint replacement. This pioneering study ranges from inventive surgeons to multi-national manufacturers, including technologies, collaborations, regulations, quality assessments, and the changing expectations of patients. It explores total hip replacement in the very different health economies of the UK and the US, asking searching questions about costs as well as benefits.