Joint Replacement and Repair Procedures to Explore With an Orthopedic Doctor Near You
Your joints play a major role in your ability to move, lift objects, drive a car, and perform other higher-functioning activities, such as swimming and running. Unfortunately, most people will experience joint pain or discomfort at some point in their lives. According to the National Poll on Healthy Aging conducted by the University of Michigan, approximately 70% of older adults reported having joint pain.
Naturally, people with joint issues want to know what their options are. Is surgery the only resolution? Or are there other, less invasive treatment methods?
Even the best orthopedic doctors can’t say for sure what your options are without knowing more about the joint in question and your medical background. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the finer points of joint replacement and repair procedures that orthopedic doctors use. We’ll also provide some useful information on how to get in touch with a Wichita orthopedic doctor who can help you understand your surgery options and what to expect.
When Does a Joint Require Surgery?
Before jumping to surgical treatments, orthopedic doctors must first determine if surgery is warranted. There are numerous conditions that cause joint pain, discomfort, and reduced mobility. Some conditions require surgery to resolve the issues. Other conditions may utilize less aggressive forms of treatment, such as injection therapy, physical therapy, or holistic methods of recovery.
With that in mind, the following conditions usually indicate a person is a candidate for surgery:
- Severe joint damage due to arthritis.
- Chronic joint issues that weren’t resolved by other treatments.
- Joint damage caused by extreme trauma or frequent dislocations.
- Severe joint pain that prevents a person from performing normal activities.
- Medical conditions and diseases that cause bones and joints to degrade.
- Joint conditions that greatly reduce quality of life.
The 3 Main Types of Joint Surgery and What to Expect
If your orthopedic doctor determines your medical condition warrants surgical intervention, they will likely discuss one or more of the following options with you.
Total Joint Replacement Surgery
Total joint replacement is a well-established surgical procedure involving the removal of damaged or arthritic joint surfaces and replacing them with prosthetic components made of ceramic, plastic, or metal. This surgery is commonly performed on the hips, knees, and shoulders.
Pros:
- Effective in alleviating chronic joint pain caused by arthritis or joint degeneration.
- Restores joint function, allowing for improved mobility and quality of life.
- Prosthetic components are designed for durability, offering lasting benefits.
Cons:
- Total joint replacement is a major surgery with an extensive recovery period lasting many months.
- Prosthetic joints have a lifespan of about 15 to 25 years, meaning revision surgeries may be needed in the future.
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation are required to fully heal and regain mobility and function.
Partial Joint Replacement Surgery
Partial joint replacement involves replacing only the damaged portion of a joint. This procedure is commonly performed on the hip, shoulder, and knee, addressing specific issues without replacing the entire joint. Damaged portions of the joint are removed and replaced with prosthetics.
Pros:
- This surgery is ideal for preserving healthy tissue.
- Compared to total joint replacement, partial joint replacement is a less invasive procedure.
- Patients may experience a quicker recovery compared to total joint replacement.
Cons:
- Partial joint replacement is only appropriate for specific joint conditions and may not be suitable for all patients.
- Despite removing damaged portions of the joint, there’s a risk that additional joint issues may arise over time.
- While generally faster than total joint replacement, recovery time may still be lengthy.
Arthroscopic Surgery
Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique that involves inserting a small camera (arthroscope) into the joint through small incisions. Orthopedic doctors employ this method for diagnostic purposes and can also be utilized for repairs, such as ligament or cartilage damage.
Pros:
- Arthroscopy is the least invasive surgery, which greatly reduces tissue damage.
- Patients typically experience a much shorter recovery time compared to more invasive procedures.
- Allows for both the diagnosis and treatment of joint issues in a single procedure.
Cons:
- Arthroscopy is suitable for certain joint issues but may not be ideal for severe joint conditions.
- Some patients may still experience residual symptoms despite the procedure.
- Some orthopedic surgeons are not as skilled in arthroscopy as others, which means patients should do their due diligence to find the best orthopedic doctor near them.
Locate an Orthopedic Doctor Near You Who You Can Trust
Orthopedic surgery options for joint replacement and repair offer individuals a spectrum of choices to address joint issues. The decision between total joint replacement, partial joint replacement, or arthroscopy depends on the specific condition, the extent of joint damage, and individual health factors.
The key to choosing the right treatment path is to work with a Wichita orthopedic doctor with experience who considers your short- and long-term recovery goals. Those who want to receive treatment from the best orthopedic doctors in the area are encouraged to contact Mid-America Orthopedics.
Our talented team of physicians, surgeons, physical therapists, and support staff means that we can offer a continuum of care most practices don’t. Additionally, our surgeons are well versed in every type of joint replacement and repair procedure, ensuring that our patients get the exact treatment they need delivered by skilled clinicians.
To schedule a consultation, call us at (316) 630-9300 or email us using the contact form on our website. One of our orthopedic doctors will be happy to examine your affected joint and develop a personalized treatment plan that relieves your pain and discomfort.