Joint Replacement

Total Knee Replacement

Total knee replacement, also known as total knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure in which a damaged or worn-out knee joint is replaced with an artificial joint made of metal and plastic. The procedure is typically recommended for patients who have severe knee pain and stiffness caused by arthritis, injury, or other degenerative conditions that have not responded to other forms of treatment. The goal of the surgery is to reduce pain, improve mobility, and restore function to the knee joint. The procedure is typically performed under general anaesthesia and involves making an incision in the knee to remove the damaged joint and replace it with the artificial joint. Recovery time and physical therapy are needed after the procedure, and the success rate of total knee replacement is generally high.

The surgery involves removing the damaged cartilage and bone from the thigh bone, shin bone, and kneecap, and replacing them with metal and plastic prosthetic parts. Recovery from knee replacement surgery typically takes several months and physical therapy is often necessary to help regain strength and range of motion in the knee.

Osteoarthritis is the primary cause for a knee replacement surgery. This procedure is typically considered a final solution for those suffering from chronic and severe knee pain or disability, after other options have been exhausted or evaluated.

Recovery

• Physical therapy is crucial for proper healing and rehabilitation after a total knee replacement

• Patients may need to use crutches or a walker for assistance in the early stages of recovery

• Pain and swelling are common after the surgery and should be managed with prescribed medication and ice therapy

• Gentle range of motion exercises should be started soon after surgery to prevent stiffness and improve flexibility

• Patients should avoid high-impact activities such as running and jumping for at least 6-12 months after surgery

• Regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon and physical therapist will be necessary to monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed

• Full recovery can take several months to a year, and it is important to be patient and follow the recommended rehabilitation plan.

Total Hip Replacement

A total hip replacement is a surgical procedure in which a damaged or worn hip joint is replaced with an artificial joint, called a prosthesis. This surgery is typically recommended for individuals who have severe hip pain and limited mobility due to hip osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or other hip joint disorders. During the procedure, the damaged bone and cartilage are removed and replaced with metal, plastic, or ceramic components that are designed to mimic the movement and function of a natural hip joint. Recovery from a total hip replacement surgery can take several weeks to months, and may involve physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises to help improve range of motion, strength, and function of the hip.

Total hip replacement surgery is typically done as a last resort when non-surgical options have been exhausted and the patient is still suffering from chronic hip pain and limited mobility. The surgery is usually done under general anaesthesia, and it usually takes 2-3 hours. After the surgery, the patient is usually moved to a recovery room, where they will be monitored for any complications. In most cases, patients will be able to walk with assistance on the same day or the next day of the surgery.

Recovery

The recovery period after a total hip replacement surgery can vary from person to person, but generally, patients can expect the following:

• Hospital Stay: The patient will typically be discharged from the hospital 1-4 days after the surgery.

• Physical Therapy: Physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises are a crucial part of the recovery process. Patients will start physical therapy within a day or two after the surgery, and will typically continue for several weeks to months. The goal of physical therapy is to help the patient regain strength, range of motion, and improve their ability to perform daily activities.

• • Pain Management: Patients can expect to experience some pain and discomfort during the recovery period, and medication will be prescribed to manage it.

• Recovery Time: Recovery time can vary depending on factors such as age, overall health, and the patient's motivation to follow the treatment plan. Most patients will be able to resume normal activities such as walking, climbing stairs, and even driving within several weeks of the surgery, but it may take several months for the patient to regain full strength and flexibility in the hip.

• Follow-up Care: After the recovery period, the patient will need to follow-up with their surgeon to monitor the progress and make sure the hip replacement is functioning well.

It is important to follow the instructions provided by the surgeon and the physical therapist in order to have a smooth recovery and achieve the best possible outcome.