What to Expect

Recalls of hip and knee replacement implants can cause understandable concern on the part of both patients and physicians. Those who have had joint replacement surgery with implants that were subsequently recalled may wonder if their health will be compromised or if they will need further surgery. If you are considering joint replacement surgery, you may be apprehensive about the longevity of the implants utilized.

Belt buckles, key chains and smartphones may set off sensitive metal detectors at airport security checkpoints. Many commonly used orthopaedic implants may also set off the metal detectors.

During a dental procedure, it is possible for bacteria from the mouth, teeth or gums to travel through the bloodstream and settle in an artificial joint.

Infection is a difficult problem that affects one out of 100 people after joint replacement surgery. If your joint becomes infected after surgery, it usually means additional surgery will be needed to treat the infection. It also means, your results will not be as good as they could be.

One of the most common complaints after total joint replacement is difficulty sleeping. The most common cause of sleep disruption is pain. It has been reported that more than half of patients wake up with pain after joint replacement.

“Doctor, where will I go after surgery?” This is one of the most common questions asked by those planning for a hip or knee replacement surgery.

Your overall health is important and can have a major impact on how well you do after hip or knee replacement surgery. It is important to discuss your health with your physician so they can help you prepare in the time leading up to surgery. Your surgeon will want to know your health history, surgical history, medicines you are taking, allergies you may have, family history and social activities. You will also likely have a discussion about optimizing your health before surgery.

When you’ve made the decision to have joint replacement surgery, use these resources to supplement discussions with your surgeon.

If you have had hip or knee replacement surgery, you are probably concerned about discomfort in the days following your surgery. It is important to understand that at some point after surgery, you will experience some level of pain – particularly with activity and physical therapy.

Hip and knee surgeons are not surprised when they find that someone who comes into the office for a problem had a hip or knee replacement done many years prior without any further follow up. Many people are unaware that they should follow up with their surgeon as part of the long-term care for joint replacements. Despite most hip and knee replacements now lasting for 15-20 years, it is important to follow up and not take your new joint for granted.

If you are anticipating a hip replacement or knee replacement, here are frequently asked questions about recovery following surgery.

Sex is a normal and an important part of human nature that represents physical, mental and spiritual well-being.

Total knee replacement is a successful procedure in the majority of patients with arthritis. It relieves pain and restores the function and alignment of the joint.

You may be worried about traveling in the first months following surgery. One concern is sitting in a car or airplane seat for long stretches of time and the risk of forming a blood clot in your leg – also known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Several studies have shown that, if appropriate measures are taken, it is safe to travel soon after your joint replacement without an increased risk of developing a blood clot for most patients.

You might be considering having your surgery outside of your home community. Whether traveling outside of the United States or within the United States for medical care, it’s best to discuss your options with your surgeon.