Total joint reconstruction is mostly performed in areas of the body such as shoulder, hip, elbow, wrist, or knee. It is a surgical procedure that replaces the damaged joint with a prosthetic made from materials, such as ceramics, plastics, or metal. The main function of the prosthesis is to replicate the normal movement of the affected joint. Most prosthetics last for more than 20 years.
The most common types of joint reconstruction surgery are hip and knee replacements. According to research, there are more than 300,000 knee replacement surgeries performed in the United States every year. This number is expected to increase by 525% in the year 2030.
People who are experiencing intolerable joint pain and can’t manage to do their normal activities are good candidates for total joint reconstruction.
Your doctor may recommend total joint replacement if you have already unsuccessfully tried several non-surgical treatment methods. Before going through this type of surgery, orthopedics in Boca Raton will share 5 facts you need to know about total joint reconstruction.
The surgery requires several preparations
Before the surgery, your surgeon together with his team will run some tests, such as cardiogram or blood tests, to check the overall status of your health.
Weeks before your surgery your doctor may ask you to be at your best physical shape to prevent possible complications and to shorten your recovery period. You may be asked to do the following.
- Stop smoking – smoking can negatively affect blood circulation which would cause delay your recovery.
- Lose weight – your doctor may require you to lose weight by following a recommended weight loss program to lessen the stress on your joints.
- Do not consume alcohol at least 48 hours before the surgery.
- Do not take any type of narcotics and other types of drugs because they can cause complications during your surgery.
- Follow some exercises that were recommended by your doctor.
The procedure would last for a few hours
Most joint reconstruction surgeries are performed in a surgery center, or in a hospital. They usually take a few hours.
During the procedure, the damaged joint will be removed from the joint socket and replaced with ceramic, metal or plastic prosthetic implants. The prosthesis is designed to mimic the natural joint movement, which would improve over time.
There are some possible complications
Your surgeon would usually discuss the possible risks and complications after the surgery. That also includes the complications that can possibly occur over time after your recovery.
Most total joint replacement complications are easily treated. The common complications include infection, nerve injury, blood clots or the prosthetic becoming dislocated or loose.
The recovery period is a very crucial process
During your recovery period, your doctor may recommend for you to use the replaced joint to regain its normal movement with some exercises. This period is very crucial and challenging, but rigorously following your doctor’s order will speed up your recovery.
Most patients experience temporary pain on the surgery site. This is because the muscles that surround the area are still weak due to inactivity and the body is in the process of healing. The pain is usually relieved after a month.
The surgery provides long-term outcomes
Most patients who underwent total joint reconstruction have gained the following long-term outcomes:
- They are able to perform their normal daily activities
- Their quality of life has improved
- Relief from joint pain
- Their motion and strength have improved
Keep in mind the 5 things listed above before undergoing a total joint reconstruction procedure. If your doctor recommends for you to have this type of surgery, or if you are looking for a trusted orthopedic center with highly skilled doctors, orthopedics in Boca Raton can help you with the whole process. Our doctors are experienced in performing invasive techniques, such as hip, knee and joint replacements as well as advanced arthritis surgeries.
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
