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Joint pain is very commonly reported by people from all age groups. But most of the time they overcome that by exercising, applying pain relief gel or through some home remedies. People visit the experts only when the pain persists for longer and they are not able to perform their day-to-day chores with ease. In cases, where the problem is severe due to arthritis or any injury arthroplasty is performed. Arthroplasty is a medical procedure that has revolutionized the way we treat joint conditions. It is done to alleviate pain, restore mobility, and improve the overall quality of life.
At Manipal Hospitals, we have advanced technology, to perform arthoplasty at the best ortho hospital in Patiala. In this blog, let's document everything you need to know about arthroplasty, from its benefits, risks, and outcomes.
When is arthroplasty recommended?
Arthroplasty, which is a surgical procedure to replace or reconstruct a joint, may be recommended for the following conditions:
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Severe joint pain that limits daily activities and quality of life.
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Joint stiffness and reduced range of motion.
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Joint deformity or instability.
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Damage or deterioration of joint tissues due to injury, infection, or chronic conditions such as arthritis.
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Inability to find relief with conservative treatments such as medication, physical therapy, or assistive devices.
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The presence of bone-on-bone contact in the joint indicates severe joint wear and tear.
It is important to note that the decision to undergo arthroplasty is made on a case-by-case basis, and other factors such as age, overall health, and the extent of joint damage will also be taken into consideration.
What are the risks involved in the procedure and how one can mitigate them?
While arthroplasty is generally considered a safe and effective procedure, it does carry some risks. Here are some potential risks associated with arthroplasty:
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Infection at the surgical site or in the joint.
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Blood clots in the legs or lungs.
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Nerve damage or injury to blood vessels.
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Dislocation or instability of the joint replacement.
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Fracture or breakage of the implant.
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Joint stiffness or limited range of motion.
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Allergic reaction to anaesthesia or implant materials.
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Implant wear and tear over time requiring revision surgery.
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Pain or discomfort during or after the procedure.
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Complications related to pre-existing health conditions such as heart or lung disease.
It is important to note that the severity of these risks can vary depending on factors such as the patient's age, overall health, and the type and extent of joint damage.
At Manipal Hospitals, we understand all your concerns and therefore our doctors take you through the steps involved in the procedure, risks, and post-operation care, and address all your queries so that you can make an informed choice. We have onboard with us some of the most reputed orthopaedic surgeons in Patiala whom you can trust for the right course of treatment.
Is Arthroplasty Procedure performed only on the Knees?
Arthroplasty is a surgical procedure that can be performed on various joints in the body. Here are some common types of arthroplasty procedures:
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Total hip replacement
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Total knee replacement
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Total shoulder replacement
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Elbow replacement
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Wrist replacement
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Ankle replacement
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Finger joint replacement
Most of these procedures involve replacing the damaged joint with an artificial joint made of silicone, plastic, metal or other materials.
Is there any difference between arthroplasty and joint replacement?
Both terms are interchangeably used to refer to the same surgical procedure but there is a difference. If we delve deeper, Arthroplasty is a broad term that refers to multiple surgical reconstructions or replacements of a joint, while joint replacement only refers to the removal of a damaged joint and replacement with an artificial joint or prosthesis.
With this, we can say that joint replacement surgery is a type of arthroplasty, but not all arthroplasty procedures involve joint replacement. For example, arthroscopic surgery, which involves repairing or removing damaged tissue in a joint through small incisions, is also a type of arthroplasty but does not involve joint replacement. The long and short of it is that while joint replacement is a type of arthroplasty, arthroplasty encompasses a broader range of surgical techniques for joint reconstruction or replacement.
What are the lifestyle modifications one must adapt post arthroplasty?
After arthroplasty, patients are typically advised to make certain lifestyle modifications to ensure a successful recovery and reduce the risk of complications. Here are some common recommendations:
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Attend physical therapy sessions to improve joint function and range of motion.
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Avoid high-impact activities such as running, jumping, or contact sports.
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Engage in low-impact exercises such as swimming, walking, or cycling to promote joint strength and flexibility.
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Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on the joint.
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Use assistive devices such as crutches, walkers, or canes as needed to reduce pressure on the joint.
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Follow a balanced and nutritious diet to support healing and reduce inflammation.
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Quit smoking to promote healing and reduce the risk of complications.
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Avoid sitting or standing in one position for long periods to prevent blood clots.
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Take medications as prescribed to manage pain, reduce inflammation, and prevent infection.
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Attend follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and address concerns.
In conclusion, arthroplasty can be a life-changing procedure for individuals with severe joint pain and mobility issues. The benefits of the surgery include improved joint function, reduced pain, and increased quality of life. However, like any surgery, it also comes with potential risks and drawbacks that patients should carefully consider before deciding to undergo the procedure. It is important for patients to get in touch with an experienced best ortho surgeons in Patiala for the right diagnosis and treatment of joint-related problems.
All this is essential because the decision to undergo arthroplasty should be based on a thorough assessment of individual needs, risks, and benefits, and should be made in consultation with an expert orthopaedic surgeon. Visit our blog section to read interesting and reliable content on topics such as bone health and more.
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