There are a few kinds of procedures out there that involve the joints in various parts of our bodies, and one of the most significant is total joint replacement surgery. What exactly is total joint replacement, which kinds of people are considered candidates for it, and what else should you know about it?
At The Orthopaedic Center, we’re here to offer the best total joint replacement services you’ll find in Tulsa, assisting patients from start to finish with identifying the ideal procedure, completing it and ensuring effective recovery. Here are some basics on what total joint replacement is, the parts of the body it’s most commonly used for, and more.
Total Joint Replacement Basics and Common Body Areas
When you hear the term “total joint replacement”, you likely think of a single procedure that applies to all body parts with joints, but this isn’t quite accurate. Total joint replacement refers to any situation where the entire surface of a joint is replaced through surgery, which includes four primary areas:
- Hip
- Knee
- Shoulder
- Elbow
These four are by far the most common areas where total joint replacement is used, but there are others as well – ankle, wrist and finger joints may also be included in certain cases. The goal of these procedures is to address arthritis and other degenerative conditions within these joints, replacing damaged or diseased tissue with new parts that will function properly.
During these procedures, a damaged joint will be removed and replaced with a metal, plastic or ceramic device that works to mimic the joint’s natural motion as closely as possible. This device, known as a prosthesis, is designed to be durable and long-lasting, and it’s attached securely to the bones in question.
Who’s a Candidate for Total Joint Replacement?
Total joint replacement isn’t right for everyone, so how do you know if you’re a candidate? Here are some of the key signs we look for when considering total joint replacement:
- Severe pain or stiffness that limits daily activities
- Pain that medication fails to control effectively
- Moderate-to-severe pain at night
- Inflammation or swelling of the affected joint
- Significant damage or deformity within the joint itself
If any of these symptoms are present, our team will work closely with you to determine your best options. It’s important to note that not all patients with these symptoms will require total joint replacement – in some cases, non-surgical methods like physical therapy or pain management may be effective.
If you and our team determine that total joint replacement is indeed the optimal approach for you, read on to our next few sections where we’ll discuss preparation, the procedure itself and some recovery concepts.
Preparation for Total Joint Replacement
In the days and weeks leading up to the procedure, you will be asked to follow various preparation steps. These may include:
- Undergoing a pre-operative medical evaluation
- Completing blood tests and other lab work
- Stopping certain medications that could affect bleeding or recovery time
- Preparing your home for post-surgery needs, such as setting up a comfortable area for rest and arranging transportation to and from appointments
The Procedure Itself
The total joint replacement surgery itself generally takes between one and three hours. You’ll receive either general anesthesia (where you’re unconscious) or regional anesthesia (where only the lower part of your body is numb), depending on what’s best for the specific procedure in question.
During surgery, the damaged or diseased joint will be removed and replaced with the prosthesis. Once this is complete, you’ll be moved to a recovery room for monitoring, and then eventually taken to your hospital room.
Recovery
After any surgical procedure, proper recovery is crucial – and total joint replacement is no exception. You’ll work with our team on ensuring you’re taking all necessary precautions, such as:
- Managing pain and swelling through medication
- Following a physical therapy plan designed to improve range of motion and strength in the affected area
- Taking steps to prevent infections or blood clots
Your doctor will also give you specific instructions about weight-bearing activities following surgery – it’s important to follow these carefully, as they will help ensure your long-term success. And remember, our team is always here to answer any questions or concerns you may have during recovery.
Total joint replacement is a major surgical procedure that can greatly improve quality of life for many patients suffering from joint pain and stiffness. If you think you may be a candidate, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with us today – we’ll work closely with you to determine the best course of action for your unique needs. Remember, at The Orthopaedic Center, our goal is always helping patients get back to living the lives they love. Contact us today for help with these or other orthopedic needs around Tulsa.
