What is Total Joint Replacement Surgery?
Total joint replacement is a surgical procedure involving the removal of damaged parts of a joint and the replacement of them with prosthetic pieces. The prosthetic pieces are designed to take on the functions of the damaged parts they replace, so the joint can function correctly once again. Joint replacement surgery is necessary when a joint is beyond natural healing and when other treatments fail to alleviate pain symptoms.
It is a useful procedure for people who suffer from health conditions that cause inflammation and deterioration of the joints. While it is often reserved as a last resort treatment, total joint replacement surgery can be very effective, and many patients experience less pain and more mobility and functionality in the joint. Total joint replacement surgery is most commonly performed on the shoulder, hip, and knee joints.
Who is a Good Candidate?
Total joint replacement surgery requires the entire joint to be replaced. This means, the right candidate will have an injured or damaged joint that needs full replacement. There is an option to get a partial joint replacement for those who only need certain parts of a joint replaced.
Because total joint replacement is a significant surgical procedure, the right candidate also needs to be able to undergo the surgery. This means they need to be in good enough health to undergo anesthesia and the procedure.
Surgery
Depending on the type of total joint replacement procedure you are getting done, the surgery can take a few hours or more to complete. The procedure will be performed at a hospital or an outpatient center. To perform the surgery, the surgeon will make an incision to access the joint that needs replacement. The surgeon will remove the damaged parts of the joint (cartilage and/or bone) and replace them with the prosthetic pieces. After this is done, the incision will be stitched up.
Recovery
The recovery process after a total joint replacement can be significant. You are likely to experience pain in the days following the surgery, but your surgeon and nurses will provide pain medications to control your symptoms.
You may stay at the hospital for a few days following your joint replacement procedure or you may go home the very same day, depending on the location of your surgery, your overall health, and your surgeon’s recommendation.
A big part of your recovery from joint replacement surgery is rehabilitation. On the day following your surgery, you will begin moving your joint with the help of an occupational or physical therapist. You will use assistive tools such as a walker, cane, or sling for at least a few weeks after the procedure.
Once your wound heals and your surgeon gives you the all-clear, you will begin physical therapy. The physical therapy will include exercises and treatments geared toward strengthening the joint, improving flexibility and mobility, and reducing symptoms such as pain, swelling, stiffness, and inflammation. Physical therapy will likely be necessary for several weeks or months, depending on your recovery speed.
Throughout your recovery, you will have routine check-up visits with your surgeon to ensure your recovering well. Your surgeon will make adjustments to your medications, treatments, and physical therapy needs depending on your recovery speed.
Total Joint Replacement Surgery in Boynton Beach, Florida
If you are considering joint replacement, contact the team of professionals at Personalized Orthopedics of the Palm Beaches. We have substantial experience performing joint replacement procedures and would love to help you find relief from your joint pain. Call our office to make an appointment, or request an appointment online.
This article is for general education and is not medical advice. For advice about your condition, talk with your physician. Request an appointment with our team.
