Joint replacement has revolutionized orthopedic medicine, allowing people to enjoy a full range of activities throughout their lives. Joint replacement surgery at Northwest Hospital is typically performed on the knees and hips � the joints that bear most of the body�s weight.   The old, worn-out surface of the joint is removed and replaced with a new synthetic joint made of high-technology metal or plastic, thereby relieving the pain caused by severely arthritic or damaged joints.   

Hip Replacement
If your hips are damaged by arthritis, a fracture or other conditions, even the simplest activities such as walking and getting in and out of bed can be painful.  By replacing the diseased hip joint with an artificial one, hip replacement surgery can relieve pain and help you resume normal activities.   Recommendations for surgery are made based on the extent of your pain and disability and your general health status, not solely on your age.

Knee Replacement
Severe arthritis or other conditions may turn everyday activities into painful ordeals.  By resurfacing your knee�s damaged and worn surfaces, total knee replacement surgery can relieve pain, correct leg deformity and help you resume normal activities.    Recommendations for surgery are made on the extent of your pain and disability � not just age. 

Preparing for Surgery � Multidisciplinary Assessment Day (MDA)
Through MDA day, you and your family can tour the facility, meet staff and participate in assessments by nursing, social work and physical and occupational therapy staff.    During MDA Day, pre-surgery lab work, such as EKGs or x-rays, are completed.   In addition to a question and answer session and general topics for discussion, information sessions and educational materials are available on:

• What to expect during your hospital stay
• Patient care
• Pain management
• Orthopedic patient care
• Rehabilitation (physical and occupational therapy)
• Social services and home care assessment

After Surgery
Patients typically remain in the hospital three to four days following surgery. Some patients receive continued inpatient rehabilitation to increase stamina and mobility before their discharge.  Through outpatient physical therapy and in-home exercise, your range of motion will improve, depending on the condition of the joint before surgery. 

For More Information
To learn more about the Joint Center, call 410-521-2200.