Joint replacement is the last trick up the sleeves of orthopedic surgeons after all other attempts to treat a damaged joint have failed. The most common condition that necessitates this is Osteoarthritis, a disease known to affect more of the older age groups.
What Is Total Joint Replacement?
In total joint replacement, parts of the damaged joint are removed and replaced with a prosthesis. The prosthesis is made of either ceramic, metal, or plastic. The hip and knee joints are the most replaced joints, and this is because they are common sites for osteoarthritis. However, total joint replacement is possible at the ankle, wrist, elbow, and shoulder too.
Why Is It Done?
Damage to the joint is commonly attributed to osteoarthritis. This is a degenerative condition of the joints. At every joint, a type of cartilage- articular cartilage lines the bone ends to aid movement and prevent friction. As we age, constant use of the joint can cause wear and tear of the cartilage. This is especially true for weight-bearing areas like the hip and knee. Wear and tear of articular cartilage mean that the bones come in close contact with the joint. This causes severe pain and swelling accompanied by loss of joint mobility.
To treat osteoarthritis, doctors usually follow a step-wise approach that includes drugs, physical therapy, alternative therapy, and lifestyle modifications. If all of these fail, joint replacement is the last option.
How Is It Done?
It’s a surgical procedure that your doctor will prepare you for. You will be tested to see if you are fit for surgery or not. Your doctor will also prepare you ahead for physical therapy after the procedure.
The surgery usually lasts a few hours, during which the damaged bones and cartilage are removed and replaced with a prosthesis. The prosthesis is shaped to look like the natural bone and cartilage in the joint so that movement is not severely affected.
See Also:What To Do When Your Child Fractures A Bone
Life After Surgery
People who have joint replacement surgery often return to their everyday lives before surgery. However, limitations are likely for people who engaged in sports before. Physical therapy is essential for full recovery after surgery. For some time after surgery, the patient is limited in mobility to prevent dislocation of the prosthesis. The whole recovery process is estimated at 12 weeks, more or less depending on other variables.
What Are The Complications?
Most surgeries turn out well. Skilled surgeons have a success rate of 90% or more. The most common concerns after surgery include infection, blood clots, failed prosthesis, nerve injury, and anesthetic complications.
Reference: Verywellhealth.com
