Understanding Joint Replacement Surgeries - Ganga Medical Center

1. Understanding Joint Replacement Surgeries: A Complete Guide Joint pain can be debilitating, affecting your mobility, mood, and overall quality of life. When conservative treatments such as physiotherapy, medications, or injections fail to bring relief, joint replacement surgery may be the best solution. In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about joint replacement surgeries — what they are, who needs them, how they are done, and what to expect after the procedure. What Is Joint Replacement Surgery? Joint replacement surgery is a medical procedure in which a damaged joint is replaced with an artificial implant, called a prosthesis. The most common types include: - Knee Replacement (TKR or UKR) - Hip Replacement (THR) - Shoulder Replacement - Elbow and Ankle Replacements (less common) These prosthetics are made from metal, plastic, or ceramic materials and are designed to mimic the natural movement of your joint.

2. Who Needs Joint Replacement Surgery? This surgery is usually recommended when: - The joint is severely damaged by arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis) - There is chronic pain even at rest or while sleeping - Mobility is limited - Daily activities like walking, climbing stairs, or bending become difficult - Other treatments have failed Types of Joint Replacement Surgeries 1. Total Joint Replacement (TJR) Replaces both sides of the joint. Common for knees and hips. 2. Partial Joint Replacement Only the damaged part of the joint is replaced (e.g., Unicompartmental Knee Replacement). 3. Revision Surgery Performed when a previous joint replacement fails or wears out. Pre-Surgery Evaluation Before surgery, your doctor will: - Take X-rays/MRIs - Perform blood tests - Check your overall health - Discuss your medical history and medications

3. You’ll also receive guidance about: - Pre-surgery exercises - Diet and weight control - Smoking/alcohol cessation How Is the Surgery Performed? Most joint replacement surgeries take 1–2 hours, and are done under spinal or general anesthesia. The surgeon removes the damaged bone/cartilage and replaces it with a prosthesis. Advanced techniques such as: - Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) - Computer-assisted navigation - Robotic surgery …can offer better precision and faster recovery. Recovery & Rehabilitation Hospital Stay - 2 to 5 days (may vary) Physiotherapy Begins within 24 hours after surgery. Regular exercises improve flexibility and strength. Home Care - Avoid heavy lifting or twisting - Use assistive devices (walker, stick) - Keep the surgical area clean and dry

4. Full recovery usually takes 6 weeks to 6 months, depending on the joint and your general health. Benefits of Joint Replacement Surgery - Significant pain relief - Improved mobility and independence - Better sleep and quality of life - Long-lasting results (implants last 15–20 years) Risks and Complications Like any surgery, joint replacement comes with some risks: - Infection - Blood clots - Implant loosening - Nerve injury - Dislocation (especially in hip replacement) Choosing an experienced orthopedic surgeon reduces these risks. When to See a Specialist? If joint pain is affecting your daily life, and medications or physiotherapy are no longer effective, it’s time to consult an orthopedic specialist. Early consultation can prevent further joint damage and improve outcomes.

5. Contact us: Address: Nh 24a 25/102, Tedhi Pulia Ring Rd, near Smriti Vihar Park, Sector 25, Indira Nagar, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh 226016 Mobile: 8808993862 Conclusion Joint replacement surgery is a safe and effective way to restore mobility and relieve chronic joint pain. With advancements in medical technology and rehabilitation, patients are now able to return to normal life more quickly and comfortably than ever before.