The knee and hip joints are crucial for maintaining mobility and performing daily activities. However, they are susceptible to wear and tear, leading to conditions like osteoarthritis, which erode the protective cartilage and cause pain, stiffness and reduced function. In some cases, joint replacement surgery is a viable option to relieve pain and restore normal joint function.
These surgeries have become increasingly common, offering a new lease on life for some individuals suffering from chronic joint pain and impaired mobility.
Edgar Fike, MD, orthopedic surgeon at the Joint Replacement Institute, a program of the St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center Department of Orthopedics, discusses the need for knee and hip replacement surgery and the latest surgical techniques.
What conditions benefit from knee and hip replacement surgeries?
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disorder that affects the joints, resulting in inflammation, pain and potential joint deformities
- Post-traumatic arthritis, which can develop after a serious knee injury
- Hip fractures, often resulting from accidents or falls
How are these surgeries performed?
- Robot-assisted surgery offers enhanced accuracy, resulting in improved outcomes and reduced recovery times.
- Customized implants enhance the precision and fit of the prosthetic joint, optimizing overall functionality.
- The use of advanced materials, such as high-performance plastics and metal alloys, contributes to the durability and longevity of knee implants.
Is rehabilitation an important part of the recovery process?
Rehabilitation plays a crucial role in the success of knee and hip replacement surgeries. Physical therapy programs are tailored to each patient’s needs, and focus on strengthening the surrounding muscles and promoting a gradual return to normal activities.
Patients who undergo knee and hip replacement surgery often experience a significant improvement in their quality of life. Reduced pain, increased joint function, and enhanced mobility contribute to a more active and fulfilling lifestyle.
What is the Joint Replacement Institute?
The Joint Replacement Institute is a specialized unit dedicated to providing efficient, personalized, quality care to people who’ve had joint replacement surgery. Our program includes an experienced team of medical professionals who provide clinical, evidence-based patient care to help patients return to normal daily activities as quickly as possible.
The Joint Replacement Institute is proud to announce they have achieved The Joint Commission’s Advanced Certification in Total Hip and Total Knee Replacement. This certification was achieved by demonstrating compliance with the organization’s national standards for healthcare quality and safety in disease-specific care.
For a free physician referral, call 580-249-3741. To learn more about the Joint Replacement Institute, visit stmarysregional.com/institute.
Individual results may vary. There are risks associated with any surgical procedure. Talk with your doctor about these risks to find out if robotic surgery is right for you.
Physicians are on the medical staff of St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the nondiscrimination notice, visit our website.
