Joint Replacement
Each year, the surgical team at The Orthopedic Hospital performs hundreds of joint replacements. During joint replacement surgery, damaged cartilage and bone are removed and a new metal, plastic or ceramic joint is positioned to restore the alignment and function of the joint. Total joint replacements are most commonly performed on the knee, hip and shoulder.
The Orthopedic Hospital's extensive joint replacement services include:
First Hospital to Offer Robotic-Arm Assisted Joint Replacement
The Orthopedic Hospital introduced robotic-arm assisted joint replacement services to northeastern Indiana. This technology transforms the way hip, knee and partial knee replacement surgery is performed. Virtual 3-D modeling enables surgeons to have a more predictable surgical experience and develop personalized surgical plans for each patient based on diagnosis and anatomy.
Outpatient Joint Replacement is Standard of Care
Outpatient joint replacement, also known as rapid recovery, is the standard of care for hip and knee replacements at The Orthopedic Hospital. Patients with minimal risk of complications may qualify for same-day surgery as opposed to a two-day hospital stay. To go home the same day as joint replacement surgery, patients must:
- Meet all post-surgery recovery goals
- Be within an hour of the surgical center or proximity to the hospital after discharge
- Commit to moving every hour to reduce the chance of blood clots
Minimally Invasive Uni-Compartmental Knee Arthroplasty Offers Fast Recovery
Minimally invasive unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA), also known as partial knee replacement, involves removing only the damaged cartilage and bone portion of the knee and replacing it with a small implant. Benefits of UKA include:
- Better range of motion and knee function
- Less pain and swelling
- Less therapy
- Quicker recovery
First Hospital to Offer Anterior-Approach Hip Replacement
The Orthopedic Hospital was the first hospital in the region to offer anterior-approach hip replacement, an innovative procedure that limits the damage to muscles during the replacement of the hip joint. During this procedure, the hip is replaced through a single incision with no detachment of muscle from the pelvis to the femur. This approach has simplified the surgery, and can result in improved patient outcomes with shorter hospital stays and faster recovery times.
Total Joint Revision Increases Mobility
For various reasons, implants that have been functioning for years sometimes need to be replaced. When these joints stop working, a second procedure called a total joint revision is performed. During this procedure, the old implant is removed and is replaced with new components, allowing the patient to increase activity and mobility.
PACE Clinic Evaluations Aid Overall Experience
In preparation for surgery, patients scheduled for total joint replacement are evaluated in our Preoperative Assessment Clearance Education (PACE) Clinic. The clinic team educates patients about surgery and guides the process, including a review of tests and existing conditions and coordination with the surgical team. This assessment can lead to a more positive patient experience and improved outcomes.
Pain Management is a Top Priority
The Orthopedic Hospital follows an established plan to manage pain and discomfort before, during and after joint replacement surgery.
- Prior to surgery, patients are given a combination of medications to reduce nausea and pain
- During surgery, patients receive pain medications to provide relief and decrease pain during the 24-hour period following surgery
- After surgery, the combination of medications given prior to surgery are continued to help manage pain through recovery
- Ice, elevation and repositioning are used to help reduce swelling and minimize pain
Proper pain control following surgery is key because it:
- Helps minimize stress
- Allows patients to fully participate in required therapy
- Promotes faster recovery
Returning to an Active Life after Joint Replacement
Physical and occupational therapists at The Orthopedic Hospital are dedicated to helping joint replacement patients get back to the activities they enjoy most following surgery. These therapists provide direction about when to begin certain activities and which activities are most appropriate for each patient's unique goals.