Arthroscopy  Joint Replacement   Casts & Splints

What is Total Joint Replacement? Total joint replacement is when an arthritic or damaged joint is removed and replaced with an artificial joint (prosthesis). A joint consists of two or more bones connected by tissues. The bone ends of a joint are covered with a smooth layer of cartilage. Normally the cartilage allows the bones to move smoothly without friction or pain. When the cartilage is damaged or diseased, joints become stiff and painful. When is Total Joint Replacement Needed? The primary goal of total joint replacement is pain relief however, it can also provide the benefits of improved joint motion and stability. The pain can be so severe that a person will avoid using the joint, weakening the muscles around the joint and making it even more difficult to move. Total joint replacement is considered when other treatment options, such as physical therapy or medication, no longer relieve the pain and disability. How is a Total Joint Replacement Performed? Total Joint Replecement requires open surgery to replace the damaged parts of the joint. The most commonly replaced joints are the knee, hip, shoulder and elbow. For example, the knee joint is formed by the lower leg bone (tibia), the thighbone (femur) and the kneecap (patella). In an arthritic knee the damaged ends of the bones and cartilage are replaced with metal and plastic surfaces that are shaped to function like the original knee to restore movement and function.