Advanced Orthopedic Methods Facilitate Positive Patient Outcomes
Joint replacement surgery improves mobility and reduces pain for individuals with severe joint conditions. However, because the average person isn’t an expert in advanced orthopedics, patients who require this type of surgery may develop an unfounded fear of the unknown.
By understanding what to expect before, during, and after your surgery, you will feel more confident about the procedure and your journey to recovery. In this blog, we’ll explore the conditions that necessitate joint replacement surgery, compare the two types of surgeries orthopedic specialists perform, and outline the stages of the joint replacement process.
Conditions That Require Joint Replacement Surgery
Joint replacement surgery is typically considered for individuals who suffer from severe joint pain and functional impairment that cannot be managed by non-surgical treatments. The most common conditions that lead to joint replacement surgery include:
- Osteoarthritis: A degenerative joint disease that results from the breakdown of cartilage in the joints. It is the leading cause of joint replacement surgeries, particularly in the hips and knees.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune disorder that causes chronic inflammation of the joints, leading to pain, swelling, and joint damage over time.
- Post-traumatic arthritis: A type of arthritis that develops after a joint injury, such as a fracture or dislocation, which can damage the cartilage and lead to pain and stiffness.
- Congenital hip dysplasia: A condition present at birth where the hip joint is malformed, leading to arthritis and joint problems later in life.
- Severe joint pain and immobility: When pain and stiffness in the joint severely affect the quality of life and limit daily activities, joint replacement may be recommended.
- Joint injuries: Certain injuries can result in accelerated wear and tear on the joint, potentially requiring surgery to ease pain and restore function.
Advanced Orthopedics: Arthroscopic Surgery vs. Open Surgery
There are two main approaches to joint replacement surgery that orthopedic specialists in Wichita use: traditional open surgery and arthroscopic surgery. Keep reading to learn how they compare.
Traditional Open Surgery
Open surgery involves making a large incision to fully access and repair or replace the joint. This type of surgery is often necessary for complex replacements that warrant a higher level of access.
- Recovery time: Patients should expect longer recovery times, more postoperative pain, and larger scars compared to arthroscopic surgery.
- Advantages: Open surgery provides a clear and direct view of the joint, allowing for comprehensive treatment of severe or complex joint conditions.
Arthroscopic Surgery
Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive technique that involves making small incisions and using specialized cameras to visualize and treat joint issues. This type of surgery is commonly used for diagnosing and treating joint issues such as torn cartilage, ligament repairs, and removing loose fragments from within the joint. Although traditional open surgery is mainly used for joint replacement procedures, there are some surgeries that can be performed using arthroscopy.
- Recovery time: Arthroscopic surgery generally yields much shorter recovery times compared to open surgery, with less pain and scarring.
- Advantages: Because this type of surgery is less invasive, it yields quicker recovery, minimal scarring, and lower risk of infection.
What to Expect Before Joint Replacement Surgery
When consulting with an orthopedic surgeon near you, expect to go through the following steps prior to undergoing surgery.
- Preoperative assessment: Your orthopedic specialist will conduct a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination, and get images of the joint using X-rays, an MRI, or CT scans. This information allows your physician to officially diagnose the issue and make treatment recommendations.
- Preoperative preparation: You will need blood tests, a heart evaluation, and other medical checks to ensure you are an ideal candidate for surgery. Some patients may be asked to stop certain medications or adjust dosages before their operations.
- Patient education: Your orthopedic specialist will provide detailed information about the surgery, recovery process, and postoperative care. Ask questions so you better understand the processes.
- Home preparation: Because most joint replacement surgeries temporarily hinder mobility and the ability to complete tasks of daily living, you will need to prepare your home for the recovery process. This might include moving furniture to widen paths of travel or getting a shower bench. Your surgeon may prescribe home health care for your recovery, if you qualify.
What to Expect During Joint Replacement Surgery
Joint replacement surgeries vary in complexity, which means they don’t all follow a uniform process. Broadly speaking, patients should expect the following steps during the procedure:
- Anesthesia: Surgery is usually performed under local, regional, or general anesthesia so you won’t feel anything. In many cases, you will sleep through the surgery.
- Surgical procedure: Your surgeon will make an incision to access the joint, remove the damaged joint surfaces, and replace them with prosthetic components.
- Duration: Joint replacement surgery typically takes one to three hours. Surgery time varies based on the complexity of the procedure and the type of joint being replaced.
- Immediate postoperative care: After the surgery, you will be transferred to a recovery room for monitoring until the anesthesia wears off.
What to Expect After Joint Replacement Surgery
Recovery is the longest part of the joint replacement process. Patients should expect the following steps after surgery is complete:
- Hospital stay: Open surgery usually warrants a hospital stay of one to three days. During this time, you will receive advanced pain management and wound care. However, if you undergo arthroscopic surgery, you will likely be discharged and allowed to return home a few hours after the procedure.
- Rehabilitation: Professional physical and occupational therapy is a key component of recovery, as it helps restore joint function, improve mobility, and increase strength. The duration and intensity of rehabilitation depend on the type of joint replacement and rate of progress.
- Advanced pain management: Pain and discomfort are expected during the initial recovery phase. Your orthopedic specialist will prescribe medications to manage pain and reduce inflammation. It’s also worth noting that professional physical therapy is a holistic method of reducing pain and discomfort.
- Home care: Once discharged, you will continue your recovery at home. Follow your doctor’s instructions on wound care, medication, physical therapy exercises, and activity limitations.
- Follow-up visits: Your orthopedic specialist will schedule follow-up appointments to gauge your recovery and see how the joint is healing. Based upon your progress, they may adjust your recovery plan.
- Long-term recovery: Full recovery and return to normal activities can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. It’s entirely dependent on the type of surgery you received and your recovery progress. During this time, adhere to your rehabilitation plan, avoid high-impact activities, and maintain a healthy lifestyle to promote long-term joint health and reduce the risk of aggravation.
Find Orthopedic Surgeons Near You Who Specialize In Advanced Orthopedics
Joint replacement surgery can significantly improve quality of life if you’re suffering from severe joint pain, immobility, and arthritis. Understanding the types of conditions that may require surgery, the differences between arthroscopic and traditional open surgery, and what to expect before, during, and after the procedure will help you prepare for a successful outcome. With proper preparation, care, and rehabilitation, you can look forward to a more active and pain-free life after surgery.
If you are currently experiencing joint pain, discomfort, or mobility issues, a comprehensive examination by an orthopedic specialist can help discover the root cause of the issue. After officially diagnosing the issue, your orthopedic physician can develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your symptoms and restores function.
Schedule an appointment with Mid-America Orthopedics in Wichita, Kansas, by calling (316) 630-9300. You can also send us questions using our contact form.