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Joint Replacement 101
Doctors share what you need to know and can expect from this surgical procedure.
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s we age, the cartilage that covers the bones begins to wear down from everyday use. Once the cartilage is gone, the bones begin to grind together during activity, which can cause pain and discomfort along with permanent damage. Individuals might even start to notice this pain during sedentary activities. This is often the point when people begin to research the process to repair the damaged joint(s). If pain management methods such as medications, injections or physical therapy fail, a patient then becomes a candidate for joint replacement surgery. While there are many ways to hinder cartilage deterioration, once it is gone, oftentimes, the only fix is surgery. Standard joint replacement on patients of varying ages involves the doctor removing the damaged components of the joint. Bone and cartilage are then replaced with artificial materials such as metal or plastic, which have a life span of 20 to 25 years. “The best way to protect your new replacement is to keep muscles strong and avoid high-impact activities. Routine Julia Y. Kao, MD, of Resurgens Orthopaedics follow-ups with a surgeon are also recommended,” explains Julia Y. Kao, MD, of Resurgens Orthopaedics. explains that patients who lead active lives prior Recovery time varies depending on which joint is to receiving joint replacement surgery typically being replaced and the activity level of the patient. can return to their previous level of exercise, Physicians typically recommend physical therapy two to three times per week for six to eight weeks. depending on the sport or activity. Dr. Kao explains that patients who lead active lives prior to receiving joint replacement surgery typically patients should inquire as to the number of joint replacements can return to their previous level of exercise, depending on a surgeon has performed and over what time period,” says the sport or activity. “However, repetitive high-impact activities the orthopedic surgeon. are often not recommended,” she says. Physicians and scientists are continually finding new ways When choosing a doctor to perform a major surgery such to enhance joint replacement surgery and the quality of as joint replacement, patients should do their due diligence life for patients who receive one. Modern advancements when researching a doctor’s certifications and specialties. include outpatient/same-day surgery and procedures that “Patients should look for board-certified orthopedic surgeons are minimally invasive or have robotic assistance. Plus, who specialize in joint replacement surgery,” says nonsurgical treatment options for joint pain such as stem cell D. Hodari Brooks, MD, a partner with OrthoAtlanta. “Next, therapy, steroid injections, and more are also growing rapidly. patients can ask their orthopedic doctors if they have Details: OrthoAtlanta.com; Resurgens.com completed a fellowship in joint replacement surgery. Finally, 20
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