Arthritis Surgery​

Abstract

Arthritis surgery relieves pain, improves joint function, and enhances the quality of life for individuals with severe arthritis that doesn’t respond to conservative treatments. Arthritis can affect joints, including the knees, hips, shoulders, hands, and feet. The specific type of surgery depends on the affected joint and the extent of the arthritis.

Types of Arthritis Surgery

1. Joint Replacement (Arthroplasty):

• Total Joint Replacement: Replacing the damaged joint with a prosthetic implant. Commonly performed on knees, hips, and shoulders.
• Partial Joint Replacement: Only part of the joint is replaced, often used for knee and hip joints.

2. Joint Fusion (Arthrodesis):

• Fusion of the Joint: The damaged joint surfaces are removed, and the bones are fused together. Commonly used for smaller joints like the ankle, wrist, and fingers.

3. Joint Resurfacing:

• Resurfacing: Smoothing or reshaping the joint surfaces to reduce pain and improve function, often used for hips and knees.

4. Synovectomy:

• Removal of Synovial Membrane: The inflamed synovial membrane is removed to reduce pain and swelling, often performed on knees, elbows, and fingers.

5. Osteotomy:

• Bone Realignment: Cutting and realigning the bones to shift weight away from the damaged area of the joint, commonly performed on knees and hips.

6. Debridement:

• Removal of Loose Bodies: Cleaning out the joint to remove loose pieces of cartilage or bone, often performed arthroscopically on knees and shoulders.

Pre-Surgery Preparation

1. Medical Evaluation:

• Medical History and Physical Exam: Your surgeon will review your medical history and perform a physical examination to assess your arthritis.
• Imaging: X-rays, MRI, or CT scans may be used to evaluate the extent of joint damage and plan the surgery.

2. Preoperative Tests:

• Blood Tests: To check for anemia, infection, or other conditions.
• EKG (Electrocardiogram): To evaluate heart health, especially if general anesthesia is planned.
• Urinalysis: To detect any urinary tract infections or other issues.

3. Medication Management:

• Adjustments: Certain medications, such as blood thinners, may need to be stopped before surgery.
• Supplements: You may be advised to take or stop certain vitamins or supplements.

4. Pre-Surgical Education:

• Instructions: Detailed instructions about pre-surgery preparation, including fasting, bathing, and what to bring to the hospital.
• Rehabilitation Plan: Discussion about postoperative rehabilitation and physical therapy.

5. Preoperative Physical Therapy:

• Strengthening Exercises: Engaging in exercises to strengthen the muscles around the affected joint can improve recovery outcomes.

The Surgery

1. Anesthesia:

• General or Regional Anesthesia: Depending on the procedure and patient condition, general anesthesia (to put you to sleep) or regional anesthesia (to numb the affected area) may be used.

2. Surgical Procedure:

• Incision: Making one or more incisions to access the affected joint.
• Procedure: Performing the specific type of arthritis surgery, such as joint replacement, fusion, or debridement.
• Closure: Closing the incisions with sutures or staples, and applying a bandage or dressing.

Post-Surgery Recovery

1. Immediate Postoperative Care:

• Monitoring: You’ll be taken to a recovery room where you’ll be closely monitored.
• Pain Management: Medications will be provided to manage pain and prevent infection.

2. Immobilization:

• Splints, Casts, or Braces: Your joint may be immobilized in a splint, cast, or brace to protect the surgical site and ensure proper healing.

3. Physical Therapy:

• Early Movement: Gradual movement of the joint to prevent stiffness, typically starting with passive motion exercises.
• Rehabilitation Exercises: Specific exercises will be prescribed to restore mobility, strength, and function.

4. Home Recovery:

• Continued Physical Therapy: Ongoing physical therapy to ensure proper healing and restoration of joint function.
• Pain Management: Continued use of pain medications as needed.
• Wound Care: Keeping the surgical site clean and dry, and watching for signs of infection.

5. Follow-Up Appointments:

• Checkups: Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor healing and progress.

6. Long-Term Rehabilitation:

• Gradual Increase in Activity: Gradually increasing activity levels under the guidance of your physical therapist.
• Strength and Mobility: Exercises to strengthen the muscles around the joint and improve range of motion.

Expected Outcomes

1. Pain Relief:

• Significant Reduction: Most patients experience significant pain relief after recovery.

2. Improved Mobility:

• Enhanced Function: Increased range of motion and improved ability to perform daily activities.

3. Strength Recovery:

• Muscle Strengthening: Regaining strength in the muscles around the joint through rehabilitation exercises.

4. Quality of Life:

• Enhanced Quality of Life: Overall improvement in quality of life due to reduced pain and improved joint function.

Conclusion

Arthritis surgery is a highly effective procedure for treating severe arthritis that doesn’t respond to conservative treatments. Proper pre-surgery preparation and diligent post-surgery care are crucial for optimal outcomes. Following your surgeon’s recommendations and engaging in regular physical therapy are key components of a successful recovery.