Total joint replacement is a common surgical procedure involving the removal of a damaged joint and substituting it with a prosthetic one. The most commonly replaced joints are hip, knee and shoulder, although the procedure can also be performed on elbow, foot, ankle and wrist. The artificial joints are designed carefully in order to enable the patient to move in the same manner as with the original joint.
Causes for undergoing Joint Replacement Surgery
Total joint replacement is often recommended for patients having severely damaged joints due to one or more of the following conditions:
- Genetic factors
- Congenital joint deformities
- Degenerative joint conditions such as Osteoarthritis or Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Repetitive injuries
- Intense trauma to the joint tendons or cartilage
- The patient may feel intense pain, stiffness and immobility in the affected joint.
- The orthopedic doctor may suggest total joint replacement surgery if the non-surgical treatment approaches fail to provide relief from the distressing symptoms.
The Procedure
There are two main techniques of performing Total Joint Replacement Surgery, namely minimally invasive or traditional open surgery. In the former one, the orthopedic surgeon makes a small incision so as to correctly insert the implant. However, the latter technique requires an incision to be made that is as large as 11 to 12 inches. During the procedure, the surgeon may remove the damaged bone and cartilage from the joint and replace it with a prosthetic part that is made of plastic, metal or other material. The artificial joint is similar in shape and movement to the original one, so that it can fully replicate its functionality.
Recovery
Patients can take anywhere between 6 to 12 weeks to recover from a Total Joint Replacement Surgery. Taking precautions as mentioned by the surgeon and indulging in exercises, as prescribed by the physical therapist, can help to restore strength and stability to the joint.
Benefits Of Total Joint Replacement
- Relief from pain Improved joint functioning
- Increased mobility and movement
- Deformity corrections
- Increased joint strength
- Improved quality of life
- Ability to perform daily activities, such as walking, climbing, running, squatting etc.
For Total Joint Replacement Surgery in McKinney, TX, visit OrthoTexas. The orthopedic surgeons here provide treatment for various degenerative and deformity conditions of the hip, knee and shoulder. They use advanced technology to make sure that your recovery period is as short and easy as possible. To schedule an appointment with the orthopedic surgeons, you can call at (972) 727 – 9995.
