Joint Replacement

The joint replacement surgery is recommended to the individual if he/she has:

• Joint pain is not getting better with nonsurgical treatments like medications, injections, bracing, rest, physical therapy, and walking-assisted devices.
• Joint stiffness and restricted mobility make it complex or impossible for them to continue their regular activities.
• Swelling or inflammation is not improving with any lifestyle changes or medications.

There are different conditions causing the above symptoms. It includes:

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Fractures on different parts of the body such as shoulders, and hip
• Joint anomalies like hip dysplasia
• Arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis
• Avascular necrosis

Usually, orthopaedic surgeons replace joints which include knees, shoulders, and hips. Healthcare experts call these procedures shoulder arthroplasty, total knee replacement, and hip arthroplasty. The following joints are replaced by the surgeons:

• Ankles
• Shoulders
• Toes
• Wrists
• Hips
• Knee
• Elbows

To be prepared for the joint replacement surgery, the doctor will ask patients to do the following things:

• First, the patient is recommended to be involved in physical therapy, exercise or a good diet program in the weeks leading up to surgery. It will ensure that the patient is healthy for the surgery.
• Before joint replacement surgery, the doctor will order some tests to assess the patient’s health. These tests are blood tests, chest X-rays, and electrocardiograms. In some cases, a CT scan and MRI will also be ordered for surgical planning.
• The doctor will ask everything about the clinical history of a patient and medications if taking any. The patient will be asked to stop some medications like blood thinners before the operation. The doctor will also instruct you about when to stop eating and drinking during the night before the joint replacement procedure.

The doctor might perform the joint replacement surgery at the hospital or in an outpatient clinic. The method will be followed depending on the surgery type and the joint which is to be replaced. The patient will be given anaesthesia as it ensures no pain during the surgery.

The doctor will make incisions for the damaged joint removal. Once it is done, they will place the artificial joint. Further, it will be closed with stitches, staples, and surgical glue. The joint is wrapped with a bandage and there might be a requirement for a brace or sling.

A minimally invasive technique can also be used for the joint replacement procedure depending on the type and signs. This technique requires fewer incisions and special tools are used. The recovery period is also less than the traditional method of surgery. The doctor will suggest the accurate procedure needed to treat the problem.

After the joint replacement procedure is performed, your doctor will tell you if the patient can go home the same day or need to stay in the hospital for a day or two. It is vital to consult the doctor to plan recovery.

After surgery it is important to follow these important steps:

• Take some time to rest and avoid any physical activity for a while
• Follow the healthcare expert's instructions and perform physical therapy. You can do a home exercise program as well.
• Keep the joint elevated during rest.
• Make sure that incisions are covered and clean.
• Take pain medications as prescribed.

Rukmani Birla Hospital is a multispecialty healthcare service in Jaipur providing unmatchable care to its patients. We have incorporated various departments at our hospital for various health conditions. The orthopaedic department is one of them which is integrated with the most talented and skilled orthopaedic doctors having years of experience and expertise in their field. We have the best orthopaedic surgeons who have the finest know-how in using the latest and modern technological equipment. So, ensure to reach out to us if you want to get the joint replacement surgery done.