All about joint replacements

Here, highly skilled and qualified consultant orthopaedic surgeon, Mr Andrew Chambler, discusses joint replacement surgery, including how it is typically performed, and what the associated risks are.

What is a joint replacement?

Arthritis (wearing out of the cartilage of joints) is common in all major joints of the body. A joint replacement is when the worn-out joint is replaced with a new artificial joint.

Is a joint replacement always necessary?

No. The effects of arthritis can be managed initially with modification of activity, analgesia, injections, and keyhole surgery.

Who is the ideal candidate?

A patient who has tried initial measures and is otherwise fit and well to undergo a major surgical procedure is an ideal candidate.

What are the associated risks?

Like all joint replacements, there are small risks associated, such as infection, dislocation, and revision surgery, as well as a small chance of blood clots/nerve injuries during the procedure.

What does recovery time entail?

Patients are in hospital overnight, but we are moving towards having the procedure done as a day case. For three weeks, patients will be in a sling, and will be recommended to do some exercises.

Often, the muscles around the shoulder, for example, have not been used for several years due to the pain and stiffness of the condition, so it takes time to get going again and to learn how to exercise without fear.

To schedule in an appointment with Mr Andrew Chambler, simply head on over to his Top Doctors profile today.