Total Joint Replacement

Total joint replacement refers to surgery in which a prosthetic device is employed to replace portions of a damaged or arthritic joint – most often in the knee, hip or shoulder, but also sometimes in the wrist, elbow, and elsewhere. This treatment is usually provided only after other, more conservative measures such as physical therapy and injections have failed to restore needed functionality of the joint and alleviate chronic pain. In a joint replacement procedure, damaged cartilage and bone are removed and a specially designed prosthesis is positioned in its place. Orthopedic surgeons provide this surgery as part of a comprehensive plan of care which will include post-operative follow ups and physical therapy to ensure that mobility is fully restored.