What is Joint Replacement (Arthroplasty)?
Arthroplasty, commonly known as joint replacement surgery, is a surgical procedure performed to restore the function of a severely damaged joint. It involves removing the diseased or injured parts of the joint and replacing them with artificial prosthetic components made of metal, ceramic, or plastic.
These implants are designed to replicate the natural movement of the joint, helping reduce pain, restore mobility, and improve overall quality of life.
This procedure is most often performed for patients with advanced arthritis, severe joint injuries, or degenerative diseases where other treatments such as medication, injections, or physical therapy are no longer effective.
Types of Joint Replacement (Arthroplasties)
There are several types of arthroplasty procedures depending on the joint affected and the extent of damage:
- Total Joint Replacement (Total Arthroplasty): The entire joint surface is replaced with prosthetic components. Common in hips and knees.
- Partial Joint Replacement (Hemiarthroplasty): Only the damaged portion of the joint is replaced, preserving as much of the natural bone and tissue as possible.
- Hip Arthroplasty: Replacement of the hip joint, commonly done for advanced hip arthritis.
- Knee Arthroplasty: Replacement of the knee joint, either partial or total, to restore movement and relieve pain.
- Shoulder Arthroplasty: Replacement of the shoulder joint, sometimes involving only the ball (humeral head) or both the ball and socket.
- Other Joint Arthroplasties: Performed less commonly in joints such as the ankle, elbow, or wrist when pain and disability are severe.
1 to 2 Hours
Surgery Duration
General Anesthesia
Anesthesia Used
3-6 Months
Full Recovery Timeline
What are the Indications for the Joint Replacement Procedure?
Doctors recommend joint replacement when the joint is so damaged or diseased that it causes persistent pain, stiffness, or loss of mobility, and when other treatments such as medicines, injections, or physical therapy no longer provide relief.
The decision is usually based on pain severity, reduced function, imaging results, and overall impact on quality of life.
What Conditions Does Joint Replacement Treat?
- Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of joint cartilage, leading to pain, stiffness, and decreased joint function. When conservative treatments like medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications no longer provide relief, joint replacement may be considered.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation and damage to the joints, leading to pain, swelling, and joint deformities. Joint replacement may be recommended if medications and other interventions fail to control symptoms.
- Post-Traumatic Arthritis: After a severe joint injury, such as a fracture, the joint can develop arthritis over time. When pain and dysfunction persist despite conservative treatments, joint replacement may be necessary.
- Avascular Necrosis: This condition happens when the blood supply to a joint is disrupted, causing bone tissue to die. It often leads to joint collapse and severe pain. Joint replacement might be considered if other treatments are ineffective.
- Congenital or Developmental Conditions: Certain congenital or developmental conditions can lead to joint deformities, instability, and early wear. Joint replacement may be necessary to restore function and alleviate pain.
- Failed Previous Surgeries: In some cases, prior joint surgeries, such as partial joint replacement, may not provide sufficient relief. A total joint replacement could be considered to address ongoing pain and functional limitations.
When Would a Doctor Recommend Joint Replacement?
A doctor may suggest hip, knee, or shoulder replacement if you experience:
- Pain that interferes with walking, climbing stairs, or daily activities.
- Nighttime pain or pain at rest that affects sleep.
- Ongoing swelling and stiffness that limits joint movement.
- Loss of independence due to reduced mobility.
- Imaging scans showing progressive damage despite conservative treatment.
Why is Joint Replacement Done?
The main goals of this procedure are to:
- Relieve pain that has not improved with nonsurgical care.
- Restore mobility and function, making daily activities easier.
- Correct deformities or misalignment caused by joint damage.
- Improve overall quality of life by reducing disability and dependence on medications.
Artificial joints are usually made of metal, ceramic, or medical-grade plastic, designed to mimic the natural motion of the joint and last for many years.
How Should I Prepare Before a Joint Replacement Procedure?
Preparation before a joint replacement procedure is essential for a safe surgery and smoother recovery. Your orthopedic surgeon and care team will guide you through the steps. Common preparation measures include:
- Consultation and Evaluation: You'll meet with your orthopedic surgeon to review your medical history, current medications, allergies, and overall health. This helps determine your readiness for surgery.
- Medical Clearance: Depending on your age and health, you may need evaluations from your primary care provider or specialists (like cardiology or pulmonology) to confirm that surgery is safe for you.
- Lifestyle Changes: Quitting smoking, reducing alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, and improving nutrition can lower risks and improve healing.
- Physical Conditioning: Pre-surgery exercises, often called "prehab," help strengthen muscles around the joint, which can speed up recovery.
- Home Preparation: Set up your home to make recovery easier & consider safety rails, a shower chair, or placing essentials on one level of your house to avoid stairs.
- Support Planning: Arrange for a caregiver, family member, or friend to assist with daily activities, transportation, and errands during your early recovery.
What Tests Are Done Before Joint Replacement Surgery?
Before a joint replacement surgery, doctors order tests to check your overall health and minimize risks:
- Blood Tests: To evaluate red and white blood cells, platelets, kidney and liver function, and blood clotting.
- Urine Tests: To rule out infections that could increase surgical risks.
- Imaging Tests: X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans provide detailed images of the joint and surrounding bone.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): Checks heart rhythm and function, especially important for older adults or those with heart disease.
- Dental Evaluation: Untreated dental infections can increase infection risk after surgery, so many surgeons require clearance from a dentist.
- Specialized Clearances: Depending on your medical history, you may need clearance from cardiology, pulmonology, or other specialists.
Should I Stop Eating, Drinking, or Taking Medicines Before a Joint Replacement?
Yes, your care team will give you specific instructions:
- Fasting: You'll usually be asked not to eat or drink anything for 6-12 hours before surgery, depending on the anesthesia plan. Clear fluids may sometimes be allowed up to a few hours before.
- Medication Adjustments:
- Blood Thinners (anticoagulants): These are often paused several days before surgery to reduce bleeding risks.
- Diabetes Medications: Insulin or oral medications may need adjustment.
- Over-the-Counter Drugs and Supplements: Some, like aspirin, ibuprofen, or herbal supplements, can increase bleeding risk and should be stopped in advance.
- Continue Essential Medications: You may be instructed to take certain medicines (like for blood pressure) with a small sip of water on the day of surgery.
- Allergy Disclosure: Always inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist about drug, food, or latex allergies.
Steps Involved in Joint Replacement Procedure
- Preoperative Assessment: You'll undergo a comprehensive evaluation by your orthopedic surgeon to determine the need for joint replacement, assess your overall health, and discuss your medical history, medications, and any allergies.
- Planning and Implant Selection: Your surgeon will assess the specific joint condition and determine the appropriate type and size of the artificial joint components (prosthesis) that will best suit your needs.
- Anesthesia: Joint replacement surgeries are typically performed under general anesthesia, which will ensure you are asleep and pain-free during the procedure.
- Surgery Day Preparation: Once you're in the operating room, the surgical team will sterilize the skin around your joint and place sterile drapes to minimize infection risk.
- Incision: The surgeon will make an incision over the affected joint. The size and location of the incision vary depending on the joint being replaced.
- Joint Access and Preparation: The surgeon carefully exposes the joint and removes the damaged surfaces along with any debris.
- Prosthesis Implantation: The artificial joint is fitted and secured to the bone, either with cement or by allowing the bone to grow into it, and designed to function like a natural joint.
- Closure and Dressing: The incision is closed with sutures or staples, and a sterile dressing is applied to the wound.
- Postoperative Recovery: You'll be moved to a recovery area to wake up from anesthesia and be closely monitored as you regain consciousness.
- Pain Management: Pain management is a crucial part of recovery. You'll receive pain medications to keep you comfortable during the initial healing period.
- Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy: Physical therapy and rehabilitation are essential to restore joint function, mobility, and strength. A physical therapist will guide you through exercises to promote recovery.
Who will do the Joint replacement Procedure?
Joint replacement procedures are typically performed by orthopedic surgeons who specialize in joint surgery, also known as orthopedic surgeons or orthopedic joint surgeons.
These highly trained medical professionals have expertise in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions, including joint-related issues that may require surgical intervention.
Orthopedic surgeons undergo extensive education and training, including medical school and residency programs, with a focus on orthopedic surgery. They often pursue further specialization in areas such as joint replacement surgery.
These surgeons are well-equipped to evaluate your joint condition, recommend appropriate treatments, and perform joint replacement procedures.
Recovery After a Joint Replacement Procedure
Recovery after a joint replacement procedure is a gradual process that focuses on healing, restoring joint function, and regaining mobility. Following your surgeon's instructions and staying consistent with physical therapy play a major role in achieving the best results.
What should I expect immediately after a joint replacement procedure?
- Hospital Stay: Most patients spend a few days in the hospital after the joint replacement procedure. During this time, your medical team will monitor vital signs, manage pain, and ensure your incision is healing properly.
- Pain Management: Some discomfort is expected, but pain will be controlled with prescribed medications and other supportive methods.
- Early Mobility: Physical therapy usually begins within 24 hours of the joint replacement procedure. With the help of a therapist, you'll start gentle exercises to improve mobility and prevent stiffness.
- Walking Support: You'll begin walking with a walker, crutches, or cane. Over time, you'll progress to walking independently.
- Wound Care: Keeping the incision clean and dry is crucial to avoid infection. Your care team will give you instructions for dressing changes and monitoring for warning signs.
When can I return to normal activities after a joint replacement procedure?
- At Home Recovery: After discharge, you'll continue exercises prescribed by your physical therapist. Recovery usually takes 6 weeks to several months, depending on your overall health, type of joint replaced, and adherence to therapy.
- Daily Activities: Many people return to light activities, like cooking or desk work, within a few weeks. Driving is usually possible within 4-6 weeks, depending on the joint and recovery progress.
- Full Recovery: Regaining full strength, range of motion, and function may take 3 to 6 months or longer. Improvement continues gradually over time.
- Activity Restrictions: High-impact activities (running, jumping, contact sports) should be avoided to protect the prosthetic joint. Low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming, or cycling are recommended.
Are lifestyle changes required after a joint replacement procedure?
After undergoing a joint replacement procedure, adopting certain lifestyle changes can contribute to a successful recovery, improve your overall well-being, and help you maintain the longevity of the new joint. Here are some lifestyle changes to consider after a joint replacement:
Physical Activity and Exercise:
- Engage in regular physical therapy and prescribed exercises to regain strength, flexibility, and joint function.
- Incorporate low-impact exercises, such as walking, swimming, and cycling, to maintain joint health and overall fitness.
- Avoid high-impact activities that could strain the new joint, such as running or jumping.
Weight Management:
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on the replaced joint and minimize the risk of complications.
- Adopt a balanced diet rich in nutrients to support healing and overall health.
Posture and Body Mechanics:
- Pay attention to your posture to prevent unnecessary strain on the replaced joint and surrounding muscles.
- Practice proper body mechanics when lifting, bending, and performing daily activities to avoid joint stress.
Assistive Devices:
- Use assistive devices such as canes, walkers, or crutches as recommended during the initial recovery phase.
- Gradually transition to walking without assistance as your strength and mobility improve.
Medications and Supplements:
- Take prescribed medications as directed by your healthcare provider to manage pain, inflammation, and other medical conditions.
- Consult your healthcare provider before taking any new medications or supplements to ensure they won't interfere with your recovery.
Rest and Sleep: Get adequate rest and quality sleep to support healing and overall well-being.
Hydration: Stay hydrated by drinking enough water throughout the day to promote healing and joint function
Follow Medical Advice: Adhere to your healthcare provider's recommendations, including attending follow-up appointments, taking medications, and following activity restrictions.
Risks & Benefits of Joint Replacement Surgery
Joint replacement surgery can offer significant relief and improve the quality of life for patients with severe joint problems. However, like any major surgery, it comes with certain risks. Here's a comparison of the potential risks and benefits:
Benefits of Joint Replacement
- Pain relief: The primary benefit of joint replacement is the reduction or complete elimination of joint pain, especially in patients suffering from arthritis or joint degeneration.
- Improved mobility: The surgery can enhance joint function and mobility, allowing patients to resume daily activities and improve their overall quality of life.
- Long-lasting results: Modern joint replacements are designed to last for many years, often providing long-term relief.
Risks of Joint Replacement
- Infection: As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection at the incision site or around the new joint.
- Blood clots: The surgery can increase the risk of blood clots, especially in the legs, which may travel to the lungs (pulmonary embolism).
- Nerve or blood vessel damage: There is a possibility of injury to nearby nerves or blood vessels during the procedure.
- Implant failure: Although rare, there is a chance the joint replacement implant may wear out or fail over time, requiring additional surgery.
- Post-surgical complications: Patients may experience issues like stiffness, joint instability, or limited range of motion after surgery.
Considering the risks and benefits of joint replacement surgery is crucial. Your doctor will discuss these factors with you to determine if the surgery is the right choice based on your individual condition and health.
What is the cost of joint replacement surgery?
The cost of joint replacement surgery in India varies by joint type, hospital, and technique:
- Knee Replacement: Rs. 1,50,000 - Rs. 5,50,000 (one knee); Rs. 3,00,000 - Rs. 7,50,000 (both knees)
- Hip Replacement: Rs. 1,50,000 - Rs. 4,80,000 (total); Rs. 75,000 - Rs. 1,75,000 (partial)
Factors affecting the joint replacement surgery cost:
- Hospital location and reputation
- Type of implant and surgical method
- Surgeon's experience
- Pre- and post-surgery tests, medications, and follow-ups
Robotic-assisted or minimally invasive procedures may cost more. Insurance can help reduce expenses.
040 68334455
WhatsApp
Patient Portal
Home Care
