Joint replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure to replace the damaged joint with a prosthetic joint. It is one of the most successful surgeries with life-changing benefits.

People suffering from extreme joint pain caused by arthritis, injuries or other medical conditions can opt for joint replacement surgery to relieve them from the pain. In this article, we will discuss everything about Complete Joint Replacement and its benefits.

What is Complete Joint Replacement?

Complete Joint Replacement is a surgical procedure where the entire joint is replaced with a prosthetic joint made up of metal, plastic or ceramic.

The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, and the surgeon removes the damaged joint and replaces it with the prosthetic joint. The prosthetic joint mimics the movement of the natural joint and provides complete relief from pain and stiffness caused by the damaged joint.

When to Consider Joint Replacement Surgery?

Joint replacement surgery is considered when the patient suffers from painful or stiff joints that interfere with daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or even getting up from a sitting position.

Other conditions that may require joint replacement surgery include:.

Osteoarthritis
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Traumatic Arthritis
Joint Instability
Joint Deformity
Avascular Necrosis

Benefits of Joint Replacement Surgery

Joint replacement surgery has several benefits, including:.

Relief from Pain: Joint replacement surgery provides long-term pain relief from the damaged joint, thus improving the quality of life of the patient.
Better Mobility: After surgery, patients experience better mobility and range of motion in the replaced joint without pain or stiffness.
Improved Quality of Life: Joint replacement surgery provides significant improvement in the patient’s quality of life by reducing pain, increasing mobility and enabling them to perform daily activities without difficulty.
Long-term Results: Joint replacement surgery has long-term results with the prosthetic joint lasting up to 25 years or more.

Types of Joint Replacement Surgery

There are different types of joint replacement surgery, including:.

Hip Replacement Surgery: In this surgery, the damaged hip joint is replaced with a prosthetic joint.
Knee Replacement Surgery: Knee replacement surgery is performed to replace the damaged knee joint with a prosthetic knee joint.
Shoulder Replacement Surgery: In this surgery, the damaged shoulder joint is replaced with a prosthetic joint.
Elbow Replacement Surgery: Elbow replacement surgery is performed to replace the damaged elbow joint with a prosthetic elbow joint.
Ankle Replacement Surgery: Ankle replacement surgery is performed to replace the damaged ankle joint with a prosthetic ankle joint.

Preparation for Joint Replacement Surgery

Before the surgery, the surgeon will conduct several tests and examinations to ensure that the patient is physically fit for the surgery.

The patient must also inform the surgeon about any medications they are taking, including herbal supplements and over-the-counter medication. The patient may also need to stop taking certain medications for a few days before the surgery. The surgeon may also recommend certain exercises to help strengthen the muscles around the joint, which can aid in quick recovery after surgery.

The Procedure for Joint Replacement Surgery

The procedure for joint replacement surgery involves the following steps:.

Anesthesia: The patient is given general or regional anesthesia to make them unconscious or numb during the surgery.
Incision: The surgeon makes an incision near the affected joint to access the damaged joint.
Removal of Damaged Joint: The surgeon removes the damaged joint carefully, leaving the surrounding ligaments and muscles intact. The surgeon may use a saw, drill or chisel to remove the damaged joint.
Implantation of Prosthetic Joint: The surgeon implants the prosthetic joint into the bone using cement or screws. The surgeon then checks for the proper functioning of the prosthetic joint and closes the incision.

Recovery after Joint Replacement Surgery

Recovery after joint replacement surgery involves a few days of hospital stay and several weeks of rehabilitation therapy.

The patient is advised not to put weight on the affected joint for a few days after the surgery and use crutches or a walker to move around. The patient must follow the prescribed exercises to strengthen the muscles around the joint and improve mobility. The surgeon also prescribes medications to manage pain and prevent infections.

Risks of Joint Replacement Surgery

Joint replacement surgery is a safe procedure but, like any surgery, has some risks associated with it. The risks include:.

Infection
Blood Clots
Nerve Damage
Fractures
Implant Loosening or Dislocation

Cost of Joint Replacement Surgery

The cost of joint replacement surgery depends on several factors, including the type of surgery, location, and hospital where the surgery is performed. However, most insurance companies cover the cost of joint replacement surgery.

Conclusion

Joint replacement surgery provides long-term relief from joint pain and stiffness, improving the quality of life of the patient. While joint replacement surgery has risks associated with it, it is a safe and effective procedure to treat damaged joints.

If you are suffering from joint pain or limited mobility in the joint, consult with a surgeon to see if joint replacement surgery is right for you.