Las Vegas Concierge Orthopedics

Joint Replacement Q & A

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What is joint replacement?

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Joint replacement is a surgical procedure that removes the damaged portions of the joint and replaces them with an artificial implant. 

Modern technology produces implants that can replicate the smooth motion of a normal, healthy joint. At Las Vegas Concierge Orthopedics, the team performs advanced joint replacement using a variety of  artificial joint prostheses including Computer Navigated procedures as well as robotic assisted surgery.  Minimally invasive techniques are used as well whenever possible.
 

Why would I need joint replacement?

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You may need joint replacement if you have a condition that can’t heal without surgical intervention. In addition, you may opt for surgery if you have pain that isn’t responding to other treatments.

Physical therapy, medication, and joint injections can often bring long-term relief. However, if you’ve tried these and other nonsurgical options, but your condition isn’t improving, the team can go over your options for joint replacement.
 

What conditions might require joint replacement?

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The conditions that most often require joint replacement include:

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Shoulder

Arthritis takes many forms, but the one that’s most likely to result in surgery is osteoarthritis, a wear-and-tear condition that arises after decades of joint use. The bones in your shoulders may lose the protective layer of cartilage which means they create friction, pain and inflammation.

The result is painful, swollen, stiff shoulders that get progressively weaker. While nonsurgical treatments may successfully manage your symptoms for a long time, eventually, the damage may become too great. At this point, you may benefit from anatomic or reverse total shoulder replacement.

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Hip

Many people who suffer from conditions like osteoarthritis may also consider joint replacement for their hip. While osteoarthritis is the most common reason for severe hip joint deterioration, other conditions like fractures may also lead to serious hip joint damage.  Dr. Carr performs the majority of his hip replacements utilizing a less invasive anterior approach.

 

Some possible situations that could require knee replacement include:

• Osteoarthritis 

• Rheumatoid arthritis

• Osteonecrosis (bone death)

• Knee joint trauma

• Fractures

If you have severe long-term knee pain and mobility issues, knee replacement could be the right option for you. 

 

 

What is recovery like for joint replacement? 

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After joint replacement, you can rest in a recovery area for a few hours or you might stay in a hospital overnight. That being said, the vast majority of our patients return home the day of surgery.

Take all medications as directed, attend follow-up visits, get plenty of rest, and ice the affected area to reduce swelling. Your surgeon will also let you know when to begin physical therapy to aid in your recovery. 

Complete recovery may take several months, but your new joint can last 20 years or longer with proper care.

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To learn more about joint replacement with Las Vegas Concierge Orthopedics in Las Vegas, Nevada, call or book online today.