Joint replacement is a surgical procedure to remove damaged or diseased parts of a joint and replace them with a metal, plastic or ceramic device called prosthesis. Most joint replacements are performed for relieving joint pain, correcting a deformity, and for improving mobility.
Orthopaedic surgeons do the procedure under general anaesthesia.
People with severe joint pain, limitation in movements, stiffness, weakness of muscle, limp, or a swelling are considered for joint replacement surgery . In advanced stages, patients may have trouble with regular activities such as walking, climbing stairs, putting on shoes, and getting into and out of cars.
Joint pain and disability can be caused by :
- Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
- Joint weakening due to:
- Heredity (runs in the family)
- Problems with the development of the joint
- Minor repetitive injuries
- Severe trauma to the joint cartilage (the cushioning tissue at the end of the bones)
- Damage to the cartilage that lines the ends of the bones either from arthritis, a fracture, or another condition
- Joint problems caused by overweight.
If nonsurgical treatments like medications, physical therapy, and changes to your everyday activities do not relieve the pain and disability, the doctor may recommend Total Joint Replacement.
The decision to replace a joint depends on several factors:
- Seriousness of the symptoms
- Moderate to severe pain, stiffness, and limited function of the joint may indicate the need for a new joint.
- Damage to the joint
- Extent of deterioration of bone and cartilage in the joint
- Joint misalignment
- Moderate to severe joint damage is an indication for joint replacement.
- Quality of life
- The limitation to daily activities caused by the Joint problem
- Age and existing conditions
A hospital stay of a day or two is typical for knee or hip joint replacement. Physical therapy then helps the muscles around the new joint to get strong. Joint hardware can last 15 to 20 years or more, depending on the type and the person’s level of physical activity.
By
Dr Nishat Goda Joint and Spine Specialist
K J Somaiya Super Speciality