Knee arthroplasty / replacement FAQ
What is knee replacement surgery, and how is it performed?
Knee replacement surgery is a procedure where damaged parts of the knee joint are replaced with artificial components. It is usually performed under general anesthesia, and the surgeon removes the damaged cartilage and bone and replaces it with metal or plastic components that mimic the natural knee joint.
Who is a good candidate for knee replacement surgery, and what factors are considered?
Good candidates for knee replacement surgery are those who have severe knee pain and mobility issues that haven’t improved with other treatments. Factors considered include age, overall health, severity of knee damage, and ability to participate in rehabilitation after surgery.
What are the risks and potential complications associated with knee replacement surgery?
Risks and complications of knee replacement surgery can include infection, blood clots, nerve damage, and implant failure. However, these risks are relatively rare, and most patients experience significant improvement in knee function and pain relief.
How long does it take to recover from knee replacement surgery, and what can patients expect during the recovery process?
Recovery from knee replacement surgery can take several weeks to several months, depending on the individual. During the recovery process, patients may need to use crutches or a walker, attend physical therapy, and avoid certain activities that can stress the knee joint.
What types of artificial knee joints are available, and how are they chosen for each patient?
There are several types of artificial knee joints available, including fixed-bearing, mobile-bearing, and partial knee replacements. The choice of implant depends on the patient’s individual needs and the extent of knee damage.
What are the expected outcomes of knee replacement surgery, and how long do the results typically last?
The expected outcomes of knee replacement surgery are generally very positive, with most patients experiencing improved knee function and reduced pain. Results can last for up to 20 years, but the lifespan of the implant may vary depending on the individual.
Can knee replacement surgery be done using minimally invasive techniques, and what are the benefits of this approach?
Knee replacement surgery can be done using minimally invasive techniques, which can reduce pain and recovery time. Benefits of this approach include less scarring, reduced blood loss, and a faster return to normal activities.
What types of physical therapy and rehabilitation are necessary after knee replacement surgery, and how long does it take to regain full mobility and function?
Physical therapy and rehabilitation are necessary after knee replacement surgery to help patients regain mobility and strength. Recovery time varies, but most patients can expect to achieve full mobility and function within several months.
Are there any alternative treatments for knee pain or damage that can be considered before resorting to knee replacement surgery?
Alternative treatments for knee pain or damage can include medications, physical therapy, injections, and weight loss. However, in cases of severe knee damage, knee replacement surgery may be the best option for long-term relief.
What can patients do to prepare for knee replacement surgery, and what can they expect before, during, and after the procedure?
Patients can prepare for knee replacement surgery by following their surgeon’s pre-operative instructions, including stopping certain medications and preparing their home for post-operative recovery. They can expect to be in the hospital for a few days after surgery, attend physical therapy, and gradually increase their activity level over time.
Hip arthroplasty / replacement FAQ
What is hip replacement surgery, and when is it necessary?
Hip replacement surgery is a procedure where a damaged hip joint is replaced with an artificial joint. It is necessary when other treatments for hip pain and mobility issues have not been successful.
Who is a good candidate for hip replacement surgery, and what factors are considered?
Good candidates for hip replacement surgery are those with severe hip pain and mobility issues that haven’t improved with other treatments. Factors considered include age, overall health, severity of hip damage, and ability to participate in rehabilitation after surgery.
What types of artificial hip joints are available, and how are they chosen for each patient?
There are several types of artificial hip joints available, including ceramic, metal, and plastic components. The choice of implant depends on the patient’s individual needs and the extent of hip damage.
What are the risks and potential complications associated with hip replacement surgery?
Risks and complications of hip replacement surgery can include infection, blood clots, dislocation, and implant failure. However, these risks are relatively rare, and most patients experience significant improvement in hip function and pain relief.
How long does it take to recover from hip replacement surgery, and what can patients expect during the recovery process?
Recovery from hip replacement surgery can take several weeks to several months, depending on the individual. During the recovery process, patients may need to use crutches or a walker, attend physical therapy, and avoid certain activities that can stress the hip joint.
6. Can hip replacement surgery be done using minimally invasive techniques, and what are the benefits of this approach?
Hip replacement surgery can be done using minimally invasive techniques, which can reduce pain and recovery time. Benefits of this approach include less scarring, reduced blood loss, and a faster return to normal activities.
What types of physical therapy and rehabilitation are necessary after hip replacement surgery, and how long does it take to regain full mobility and function?
Physical therapy and rehabilitation are necessary after hip replacement surgery to help patients regain mobility and strength. Recovery time varies, but most patients can expect to achieve full mobility and function within several months.
How long do the results of hip replacement surgery last, and what can patients do to ensure the longevity of their new hip joint?
The results of hip replacement surgery can last for up to 20 years, but the lifespan of the implant may vary depending on the individual. Patients can ensure the longevity of their new hip joint by following their surgeon’s post-operative instructions and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Are there any alternative treatments for hip pain or damage that can be considered before resorting to hip replacement surgery?
Alternative treatments for hip pain or damage can include medications, physical therapy, injections, and weight loss. However, in cases of severe hip damage, hip replacement surgery may be the best option for long-term relief.
What can patients do to prepare for hip replacement surgery, and what can they expect before, during, and after the procedure?
Patients can prepare for hip replacement surgery by following their surgeon’s pre-operative instructions, including stopping certain medications and preparing their home for post-operative recovery. They can expect to be in the hospital for a few days after surgery, attend physical therapy, and gradually increase their activity level over time.
Shoulder arthroscopy FAQ
What is shoulder arthroscopy, and how is it performed?
Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a small camera to diagnose and treat shoulder injuries and conditions. It is performed by making small incisions in the shoulder and inserting a camera and instruments.
Who is a good candidate for shoulder arthroscopy, and what conditions can it treat?
Good candidates for shoulder arthroscopy are those with shoulder pain, swelling, and limited mobility that hasn’t improved with other treatments. It can treat a range of conditions, including rotator cuff tears, shoulder instability, and frozen shoulder.
What are the risks and potential complications associated with shoulder arthroscopy?
Risks and complications of shoulder arthroscopy can include infection, bleeding, nerve damage, and blood clots. However, these risks are relatively rare, and most patients experience significant improvement in shoulder function and pain relief.
How long does it take to recover from shoulder arthroscopy, and what can patients expect during the recovery process?
Recovery from shoulder arthroscopy can take several weeks to several months, depending on the individual. During the recovery process, patients may need to use a sling, attend physical therapy, and avoid certain activities that can stress the shoulder joint.
What types of shoulder injuries and conditions can be diagnosed and treated with arthroscopy?
Shoulder arthroscopy can diagnose and treat a range of injuries and conditions, including rotator cuff tears, labral tears, bursitis, and shoulder impingement.
Can shoulder arthroscopy be done using minimally invasive techniques, and what are the benefits of this approach?
Shoulder arthroscopy can be done using minimally invasive techniques, which can reduce pain and recovery time. Benefits of this approach include less scarring, reduced blood loss, and a faster return to normal activities.
What types of physical therapy and rehabilitation are necessary after shoulder arthroscopy, and how long does it take to regain full mobility and function?
Physical therapy and rehabilitation are necessary after shoulder arthroscopy to help patients regain mobility and strength. Recovery time varies, but most patients can expect to achieve full mobility and function within several months.
How long do the results of shoulder arthroscopy last, and what can patients do to ensure the longevity of their shoulder joint?
The results of shoulder arthroscopy can last for years, but the lifespan of the joint may vary depending on the individual. Patients can ensure the longevity of their shoulder joint by following their surgeon’s post-operative instructions and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Are there any alternative treatments for shoulder pain or damage that can be considered before resorting to arthroscopy?
Alternative treatments for shoulder pain or damage can include medications, physical therapy, injections, and weight loss. However, in cases of severe shoulder damage, arthroscopy may be the best option for long-term relief.
What can patients do to prepare for shoulder arthroscopy, and what can they expect before, during, and after the procedure?
Patients can prepare for shoulder arthroscopy by following their surgeon’s pre-operative instructions, including stopping certain medications and preparing their home for post-operative recovery. They can expect to be in the hospital for a few hours or a day after surgery, attend physical therapy, and gradually increase their activity level over time.