Verified By Apollo Orthopedician August 21, 2021
2588Arthroplasty is a procedure performed to restore the function of a joint. The joint can be restored by resurfacing the bones, or an artificial joint (prosthesis) may also be used.
While hip and knee arthroplasties are most common, arthroplasty can also repair or replace other joints in the body, including the shoulders, ankles, elbows and fingers. Total joint replacement involves surgical replacement of a diseased joint with an artificial joint called a prosthesis. For instance, a knee joint affected by arthritis may be replaced in its entirety—this is called total knee arthroplasty.
While arthroplasty is performed to restore joint functions affected by rheumatoid arthritis, osteonecrosis and joint injuries, osteoarthritis (degenerative joint disease) is the most common reason for performing this procedure. Osteoarthritis is a loss of the cartilage or cushion in a joint.
Arthroplasty is used when medicines and medical treatments do not relieve joint pain and disability effectively. A few medical therapies for joint conditions (or osteoarthritis) that could be used before arthroplasty include:
People who have undergone arthroplasty generally have significant progress and improvement to perform their daily activities and quality of life.
There can be other reasons for your treating doctor to suggest arthroplasty. Please check hip replacement surgery and knee replacement surgery for more specific information.
As any surgical procedure has complications, arthroscopy also has a few potential complications. Some possible complications may include:
There may be other complications depending on your specific health condition. Make sure you discuss any concerns with your doctor before the procedure.
Your healthcare provider or treating doctor will review and instruct you about the procedure and you can ask any questions about the procedure. Preparation for your procedure may include the following steps:
Usually, an arthroplasty procedure requires a stay in the hospital. may vary depending on the practices of your healthcare provider and your medical condition.
Arthroplasty can be performed while you are awake under spinal anaesthesia or asleep under general anaesthesia. Your anesthesiologist may discuss this with you before the procedure.
Usually, the arthroplasty follows the following process:
Recovery and rehabilitation will be different for each individual. Generally, your treating doctor would want you to use your ‘new’ joint shortly after the procedure. While it may be challenging at times, physiotherapy and adhering to your treating doctor’s instructions will speed your recovery.
Immediately after your procedure, you will be taken to a recovery room for observation. As soon as your breathing, pulse and blood pressure are stable, and you become alert, you will be shifted to a hospital room.
Exercise is the most vital part of your road to recovery plan. Soon after your surgery and during your stay in the hospital, your physical therapist will plan an exercise rehabilitation program for you to help restore movement and strengthen the joint.
You may experience pain in the replaced joint because your body is adjusting to the new joint, the surrounding muscles become weak from inactivity, and the tissues will eventually heal. Your pain is controlled with medication, so you can participate in your exercise program – both in the hospital and after discharge too.
Once you are back at home, you need to keep the surgical site clean and dry. Your doctor will give specific instructions for bathing. Your stitches or surgical staples will be removed during your follow-up visit to the doctor office.
It is important to take pain relievers as recommended by your doctor only.
Call your doctor or healthcare provider to report any of the following:
If you have any queries about activity limitations after total joint replacement, consult your treating doctor.
A majority of patients can perform everyday activities more easily post arthroplasty or joint replacement procedures. In addition, arthroplasty (or a joint replacement) can last for many years for many people offering them an improved quality of life which includes less pain and improved movement and strength that would not have been possible otherwise.
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July 7, 2023