Joint
replacement surgery is a medical procedure that aims at helping people
suffering from chronic joint ailments. The procedure involves the removal of a
damaged joint and replacing it with an artificially created graft made up of
plastic, ceramics or metal. The procedure is offered at all the leading orthopaedic
hospitals including the leading spine surgery hospital in India. Joint
replacement surgeries have paved way for new possibilities by making it possible
for the patient to get rid of the unnecessary pain and discomfort that prevented
them from living a normal life. However, joint replacement surgery is usually
the last resort of the doctors when all other treatment options fail to work.
In
this blog, we have tried to answer some frequently asked questions about joint
replacement surgery with the help of Dr.Bharat Bahre who is one of the most trusted names when it comes to joint
replacement surgery in India.
Why do I need joint replacement surgery?
Joint
replacement surgery is used to help patients suffering from chronic joint
damage which may be the result of a prevailing medical condition like arthritis
or osteoporosis, an injury sustained in an accident, severe blow or wear and
tear due to prolonged indulgence in rigorous physical activities. Elbow, ankle
and shoulder joint replacement surgeries are usually performed in case of sports-related
injuries. A lot of patients prefer to undergo elbow, ankle and shoulder joint replacement in Delhi as
the treatment offered here is at par with excellence.
Will the surgery help to completely evade
the problem?
The
surgery can help you to get instant relief from the pain but it is not a
permanent solution and you might even need a revision surgery especially in
case of arthritis or osteoarthritis. However, sticking to the guidelines set by
your doctor can help to increase the life of the graft and also help you to
cope up with the post-surgical trauma.
How do I know whether I need total or
partial knee replacement surgery?
Total
knee replacement is recommended to patients whose knee joint has been
completely damaged and cannot be restored whereas partial knee replacement is used
for patients whose joint has not been damaged completely. The decision is
usually taken by your doctor after conducting a series of tests and screenings to
determine the extent to which the joint has been damaged. Both partial, as well
as total knee replacement surgery in Delhi,
is performed by specialised experts who leave no stone unturned in delivering best
results.
What are the various complications
associated with joint replacement surgery?
Just
like any other medical procedure, joint replacement surgery also has a number
of risks and complications associated with it. The surgery is performed under the
influence of anaesthesia and as such is not recommended for patients who are
allergic to anaesthesia. The various complications associated with joint replacement
surgery include blood clotting, infection, nerve damage, dislocation of the prosthesis
etc. It is very important to keep all of these in mind before opting for the
procedure.
How long do I need to stay in the hospital
post surgery?
Undergoing
a joint replacement surgery is definitely a big deal and it might take up to
months or even years to recover completely. Usually the patient is discharged
within 2 to 3 weeks post surgery, however movement of the affected joint is
restricted to some extent. Doctors usually recommend complete bed rest and abstaining
from all kind of rigorous activities. Normal activities can be started only
after consulting your specialist.
What all guidelines need to be followed
after a joint replacement surgery?
The
success rate of a joint replacement surgery majorly depends upon the willingness
of the patient to follow the guidelines and routines set by the doctors. It is
advisable to avoid rigorous physical activities. Keep your weight under check
as excessive body weight can give rise to complications especially in case of knee,
ankle and hip replacement surgeries. Do not move the affected area unnecessarily.
Avoid lifting heavy objects and bending your back. Physiotherapy is very
important as it helps to increase the flexibility of the affected joint and
minimises the time taken for recovery.
