Arthroplasty

Arthroplasty, also known as joint replacement surgery, replaces the injured joint with an artificial joint made of metal, ceramic or plastic. In arthroplasty procedures, the entire joint is usually replaced. However, it may also be preferable to replace only the damaged part of the joint. Hip, knee and shoulder joints are among the most frequently replaced joints in the human body. Artificial joints, often known as prostheses, serve the same purpose as natural joints and are regarded as such.

The recovery process after arthroplasty surgery varies from person to person. The general health condition of the person, the replaced joint, age and lifestyle affect the healing process. The most common arthroplasty operations are performed on the hip, knee and shoulder, but joint changes are not limited to these regions. The joints in the wrist, elbow, finger and ankle can also be replaced by arthroplasty operations.

If possible, different treatment methods are preferred before arthroplasty surgery. However, when these methods do not improve, joint replacement surgery is performed. Non-surgical treatment options include physical therapy, medication, use of supportive equipment, walkers or injections.

The need for arthroplasty surgery to replace the joint arises as a result of symptoms such joint stiffness and mobility restriction, difficulty completing daily tasks, and persistent joint swelling. However, arthroplasty surgery may be required in cases of various arthritis diseases, especially osteoarthritis, joint anomalies such as rheumatism, fracture, hip dysplasia, and avascular necrosis of the bone.

Arthroplasty Process

Arthroplasty surgery is needed when alternative treatment options such as physical therapy, exercise, dietary changes or using supportive equipment are not successful. Before arthroplasty, as in other major surgeries, patients' ECG and chest X-rays should be taken. Advanced imaging methods such as computed tomography or MR are also used in the planning of some surgeries. People who use regular medicines such as blood thinners should inform the specialist physician of this situation.

Depending on the joint that needs to be changed, a different surgical approach is performed. All arthroplasty surgeries are performed under general anaesthesia. In this way, patients do not feel any pain during the procedure. With the incisions, the damaged joint is taken out of the body and an artificial joint is placed in its place. The incisions are then closed with sutures. Patients might need to wrap or suspend the operation area for a while after the procedure. Some joint changes can be performed with minimally invasive methods. With these methods, the postoperative recovery period is shorter and more comfortable. In addition, less scars remain after the surgery.

Postoperative

Depending on the replacement joint, patients may need to stay in the hospital for one or two nights. After the surgery, patients may need help with their daily activities such as cleaning, showering or eating for a while. There are various conditions that should be considered after the surgery. Rest is essential for a healthy and rapid recovery after arthroplasty surgery. Patients should stay away from physical activity for a period of time. Additionally, periodically applying ice compresses to the new joint can help with recovery.

After surgery, physical therapy activities should be performed at home to help the replacement joint function normally and recover its previous mobility. Regular participation in these activities is crucial. These workouts not only speed up the healing process but also help in protecting the newly attached joint.

In addition to a fast and comfortable recovery after the surgery, it is necessary to follow the recommendations of the specialist physician in order for the joint to function without any problems. Arthroplasty surgeries are large-scale surgeries. For this reason, various complications such as blood clotting, infection, and dislocation of the joint can be seen after the surgery. In order to avoid such problems, it is necessary to strictly follow the recommendations of the specialist physician.