What conditions need a hip or knee joint replacement?
Arthritis, usually osteoarthritis, is the top reason people need a hip or knee joint replacement. When arthritis reaches an advanced stage, the joint sustains so much damage that a new joint is the only way to ease your pain and restore mobility.
Osteoarthritis develops over years of repetitive knee movement that gradually wears away the cartilage covering the bones. As you lose more protective cartilage, the bones start to rub together, causing pain, stiffness, bone spurs, and inflammation.
You may also need to replace the joint if you suffer a hip fracture or a severe knee fracture. Though not as common, many people need a joint replacement if they develop osteonecrosis, a condition in which bone cells die because the blood supply is blocked.
When should I consider hip or knee joint replacement?
Most people consider getting a new joint when:
- Extensive joint degeneration develops
- Conservative treatments stop relieving pain
- Knee or hip pain is a daily struggle
- Joint pain prevents daily activities
- Joint pain persists when resting
Your provider at Congress Orthopaedic Associates talks with you about the condition of your hip, your treatment options, and whether it’s time to consider a joint replacement.
What happens during hip and knee joint replacement surgery?
Surgery follows the same basic process for hip and knee joint replacements. Your provider removes all the damaged tissues, cleans away debris, and reshapes the bones to fit the prosthetic joint components.
After preparing the bones, your provider implants the new joint components. They may cement some prosthetic components; others bond with the bone.
The components replacing bones consist of metal or ceramic. Plastic inserts go between the metal replacements, taking the place of your original cartilage. All joint replacements are designed to replicate the natural movement or the joint.
What is a partial joint replacement?
During a partial hip replacement, your provider only replaces the rounded top of the femur (thighbone). Some hip fractures qualify for a partial replacement.
The knee joint is different because it has three natural compartments. If arthritis only affects one component, you can have a partial knee replacement for that area.
To learn if you qualify for a hip or knee joint replacement, call Congress Orthopaedic Associates or book an appointment online today.
