Joint Replacement Surgery

Surgical treatment options for joint pain

Many people experience the need for a total joint replacement surgery at some point in their lives. The expert orthopedic team at Parkview Ortho Hospital can help diagnose the causes of your joint pain and determine the most effective treatment option.

The need for total joint replacement surgery typically results from osteoarthritis, which causes excessive wear and tear on joint cartilage. Joint cartilage is a tough, smooth tissue that covers the ends of bones where joints are located. It helps cushion the bones during movement, and because it is smooth and slippery, it allows for motion with minimal friction.

Arthritis, developed after years of constant motion and pressure in the joints, begins to wear down the cartilage. The joint becomes increasingly painful and difficult to move. If conservative treatment options fail to provide relief, your surgeon may recommend a total joint replacement.

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To schedule an appointment in Allen County, call the Ortho NorthEast office at 260-484-8551 or click below to request an appointment.

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How long will a joint replacement last and can a second one be done?

All implants have a limited life expectancy depending on your age, weight, activity level, and medical condition(s). A total joint implant’s longevity will vary in every patient. It is important to remember that an implant is a medical device subject to wear that may lead to mechanical failure. While it is important to follow all of the surgeon’s recommendations after surgery, there is no guarantee that a particular implant will last for any specific length of time.

What are the possible complications from joint replacement surgery?

While uncommon, complications can occur during and after surgery. Some complications include infection, blood clots, implant breakage, malalignment, and premature wear, any of which may necessitate implant removal/replacement surgery. While these devices are generally successful in attaining reduced pain and restored function, they cannot be expected to withstand the activity levels and loads of normal healthy bone and joint tissue. Although implant surgery is extremely successful in most cases, some patients still experience pain and stiffness. No implant will last forever, and factors such as a patient’s post-surgical activities and weight can affect longevity. You should be sure to discuss these and other risks with their surgeon.

What are the results of total joint replacement?

Results will vary depending on the quality of the surrounding tissue, the severity of arthritis at the time of surgery, your activity level, and your adherence to the doctor’s orders.

What is a joint replacement?

Total joint replacement, also called arthroplasty, involves removing the damaged bone and cartilage, and resurfacing it with orthopedic implants. Joint replacement surgery can be performed on several major joints, with two of the most common being the knee or hip joints.

When is joint replacement surgery performed?

An orthopedic surgeon will decide if you are a candidate for the surgery. This will be based on medical history, exam, X-rays, and response to conservative treatment. The decision to have surgery will be yours.

Why is a revision sometimes required?

Just as an original joint wears out, a joint replacement will wear over time as well. The most common reason for revision is loosening of the artificial surface from the bone. Wearing of the plastic spacer may also result in the need for a new spacer. A surgeon will explain the possible complications associated with total knee replacement.