(Hip Arthroplasty, Joint Arthroplasty, Knee Arthroplasty, Shoulder Arthroplasty, Finger Arthroplasty, Joint Replacement Surgery)
Arthroplasty is a surgical procedure to restore the integrity and function of a joint. A joint can be restored by resurfacing the bones. An artificial joint (called a prosthesis) may also be used.
Various types of arthritis may affect the joints. Osteoarthritis, or degenerative joint disease, is a loss of the cartilage or cushion in a joint, and is the most common reason for arthroplasty.
Joints are formed where bones meet. Most joints are mobile, allowing the bones to move. Joints consist of the following:
Arthroplasty may be used when medical treatments no longer provide adequate relief from joint pain and/or disability . Some medical treatments for osteoarthritis that may be used prior to arthroplasty include, but are not limited to, the following:
People who have arthroplasty generally have substantial improvement in their joint pain, ability to perform activities, and quality of life, so these are important reasons for the procedure as well.
Most joint surgery involves the hip and knee, with surgery on the ankle, elbow, shoulder, and fingers being performed less often.
There may be other reasons for your doctor to recommend arthroplasty. Please see hip replacement and knee replacement surgical procedures for more specific information.
As with any surgical procedure, complications can occur. Some possible complications may include, but are not limited to the following:
Nerves or blood vessels in the area of surgery may be injured, resulting in weakness or numbness. The joint pain may not be relieved by the surgery.
There may be other risks depending on your specific medical condition. Be sure to discuss any concerns with your doctor prior to the procedure.
Arthroplasty requires a stay in a hospital. Procedures may vary depending on your condition and your doctor’s practices.
Arthroplasty may be performed while you are asleep under general anesthesia, or while you are awake under localized anesthesia. Your anesthesiologist will discuss this with you in advance.
Generally, arthroplasty follows this process:
After the surgery you will be taken to the recovery room for observation. Once your blood pressure, pulse, and breathing are stable and you are alert, you will be taken to your hospital room. Arthroplasty usually requires an in-hospital stay of several days.
It is important to begin moving the new joint after surgery. A physical therapist will meet with you soon after your surgery and plan an exercise program for you. Your pain will be controlled with medication so that you can participate in the exercise. You will be given an exercise plan to follow both in the hospital and after discharge.
You will be discharged home or to a rehabilitation center. In either case, your doctor will arrange for continuation of physical therapy until you regain muscle strength and good range of motion.
Once you are home, it will be important to keep the surgical area clean and dry. Your doctor will give you specific bathing instructions. The stitches or surgical staples will be removed during a follow-up office visit.
Take a pain reliever for soreness as recommended by your doctor. Aspirin or certain other pain medications may increase the chance of bleeding. Be sure to take only recommended medications.
Notify your doctor to report any of the following:
You may resume your normal diet unless your doctor advises you differently.
You should not drive until your doctor tells you to. Other activity restrictions may apply.
Making certain modifications to your home may help you during your recovery. These modifications include, but are not limited to, the following:
Your doctor may give you additional or alternate instructions after the procedure, depending on your particular situation.
The content provided here is for informational purposes only, and was not designed to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease, or replace the professional medical advice you receive from your doctor. Please consult your health care provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition.
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