Total Joint Replacement Surgery in Delhi NCR
Total joint replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty,
is a medical procedure in which a damaged or diseased joint is replaced with an
artificial joint, often made from metal, plastic, or ceramic components. This
surgery is most commonly performed on weight-bearing joints such as the knee,
hip, and shoulder, but can also be done on elbows, ankles, and fingers. It is
generally recommended when joint damage severely limits mobility and causes
chronic pain, affecting the quality of life.
Why Total Joint Replacement Is Needed
Joint replacement becomes necessary when conservative
treatments—like medication, physical therapy, or injections—no longer relieve
pain or restore function. The most common reason for joint damage is
osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease that leads to the wearing down of
cartilage. Other conditions that may necessitate joint replacement include:
- Rheumatoid
arthritis
- Post-traumatic
arthritis
- Avascular
necrosis (bone tissue death due to lack of blood supply)
- Joint
deformities
- Fractures
or severe injuries
These conditions can lead to chronic pain, swelling,
stiffness, and difficulty performing daily tasks such as walking, climbing
stairs, or even dressing.
Types of Joint Replacement Surgeries
The procedure varies based on the joint involved, but all
surgeries aim to relieve pain and improve function.
- Hip
Replacement: The damaged hip socket and femoral head are replaced with
a prosthetic ball-and-socket joint.
- Knee
Replacement: Damaged cartilage and bone from the knee joint are
replaced with metal and plastic components.
- Shoulder
Replacement: The ball and socket of the shoulder joint are replaced,
especially in cases of arthritis or rotator cuff tear arthropathy.
- Other
Joints: While less common, replacement can also be done for ankles,
elbows, and fingers when necessary.
The Surgical Process
Joint replacement surgeries typically involve the following
steps:
- Preoperative
Evaluation: Includes physical examination, imaging tests (X-rays,
MRI), and blood work to assess overall health.
- Anesthesia:
General or regional anesthesia is administered.
- Surgical
Procedure: The damaged bone and cartilage are removed, and the
prosthetic joint is implanted.
- Recovery
and Rehabilitation: Begins shortly after surgery and includes physical
therapy to regain strength, flexibility, and mobility.
The entire surgery usually takes 1–3 hours, and hospital
stays vary from same-day discharge to a few days, depending on the type of
joint and patient condition.
Benefits of Total Joint Replacement in Delhi NCR
- Pain
Relief: One of the most immediate and significant benefits is reduced
joint pain.
- Improved
Mobility: Patients often regain the ability to walk, climb stairs, and
perform daily activities.
- Better
Quality of Life: With improved mobility and reduced pain, patients
often return to a more active lifestyle.
- Long-Lasting
Results: Modern implants can last 15–25 years or more with proper
care.
Risks and Complications
Although joint replacement is generally safe and successful,
like any surgical procedure, it carries some risks:
- Infection
- Blood
clots
- Implant
loosening or wear
- Nerve
injury
- Dislocation
(especially in hip replacements)
- Allergic
reactions to implant materials
Choosing an experienced surgeon and adhering to post-surgery
guidelines greatly reduce these risks.
Post-Surgery Recovery and Care
Recovery varies depending on the type of surgery and
individual health. Physical therapy plays a crucial role and usually starts
within 24 hours after surgery. A full recovery may take weeks to months. During
recovery:
- Patients
should follow a customized exercise program
- Adhere
to dietary and medication instructions
- Attend
regular follow-up appointments
- Avoid
high-impact activities to preserve the implant
Patients are encouraged to make long-term lifestyle changes,
such as weight management and avoiding smoking, to prolong the life of the
prosthetic joint.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Ideal candidates for total joint replacement include:
- Individuals
with advanced joint disease confirmed by imaging
- Those
who have not responded well to non-surgical treatments
- Patients
who are motivated to undergo rehabilitation
- People
without serious medical conditions that would complicate surgery
Age is not necessarily a barrier; rather, overall health and
activity level play a more important role.
Total joint replacement surgery has revolutionized the
treatment of joint diseases, offering relief and renewed mobility to millions
worldwide. While it is not without risks, its benefits often far outweigh the
drawbacks when performed on suitable candidates. With the right surgical care
and diligent post-operative rehabilitation, patients can look forward to living
more active, pain-free lives.
If you or someone you know suffers from joint pain and
reduced mobility, consulting an orthopedic specialist about joint replacement
options may be the first step toward a healthier, more active future.
Contact now with best orthopaedic surgeon in Delhi NCR for
Total Joint Replacement Surgery.
Comments
Post a Comment