Joint Replacement Q & A
Q: Does joint replacement work?
A: After Joint replacement surgery most patients experience significant reduction in pain and improved mobility, resulting in improved quality of life. Many factors, including physical condition, weight, activity level, personal anatomy and willingness to abide to surgeon’s instructions prior to and after surgery play an important role in overall performance and life span of an implant. As always when undergoing surgery, there are potential risks and recovery time is required. Your orthopedic surgeon can determine if surgery is the right option for you and keep in mind that individual results may vary.
Q: Am I a good candidate for this type of procedure?
A: After reviewing your medical history, taking X-rays and performing any exam or test they feel necessary, your doctors will decide if you are in fact a good candidate for this surgery. You will be asked if your level of discomfort, stiffness and disability justify undergoing surgery. If non-operative methods can adequately control your discomfort, there is no harm in waiting to have surgery.
Q: Is there a maximum age limit for this surgery?
A: Consult your physician about your general health and your ability to withstand surgery. In general age is not a factor if you are in reasonably good health and you have the desire to continue pursuing an active and productive life.
Q: What possible complications are involved with total joint replacement surgery?
A: Complications linked to total joint replacement surgery are uncommon, however they do occur. Complications which can occur during and/or after surgery include, but are not limited to infection, implant breakage, blood clots, premature wear and malalignment. If one of these complications should occur additional surgery may be required. Various measures including prescribing antibiotics and blood thinners before and after surgery may be recommended by your surgeon to avoid these complications. In most cases joint replacement surgery is extremely successful, although sometimes some pain and stiffness remain. Weight and post-surgical activities can affect your long term results. Please discuss these and any other risk factors with your surgeon.
Q: How long will I be in the hospital?
A: Before minimally invasive procedures, patients could expect to be in the hospital for approximately 3 to 4 days, followed by 6 weeks or more of physical therapy before returning to their normal activities. In most cases, minimally-invasive surgery allows patients to be discharged in as little as 1 to 2 days. Patients may also expect a much faster return to normal activities with less post-operative pain.
Q: Will I be able to pursue the same activities as before my joint replacement surgery?
A: In general, patients should be able to partake in certain low-impact activities not long after surgery. This does depends on multiple factors, including your health, the type of surgery, and your recovery. Typically surgeons discourage patients from any high impact activities such as running and other strenuous sports.