Osteoarthritis Surgery
Surgery for osteoarthritis may be considered when conventional therapies fail to relieve symptoms such as stiffness, pain, and loss of function. Common surgical options include osteotomy, which straightens bones to alleviate pressure on the affected joint, and arthroscopy, a minimally invasive procedure used to repair damaged tissue. Joint replacement surgery, such as total knee or hip arthroplasty, involves replacing the damaged surfaces of joints with artificial implants to restore function and reduce pain. In some cases, joint fusion—where bones are permanently joined to stabilize a joint—may also be necessary. The primary goals of these surgeries are to enhance mobility, alleviate pain, and improve overall quality of life for individuals with arthritis. Post-operative rehabilitation is often an essential part of the recovery process to achieve the best outcomes.
About Osteoarthritis Surgery
Osteoarthritis Symptoms: Common symptoms of osteoarthritis include joint pain, stiffness, and a reduced range of motion. Affected joints may also swell, become tender, or develop bone spurs.
Osteoarthritis Causes: Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage in joints deteriorates, leading to bone-on-bone contact and subsequent inflammation. Key contributing factors include genetics, aging, obesity, previous joint injuries, and repetitive stress on the joints.
Osteoarthritis Remedies: The primary treatment goals are to alleviate pain, improve joint mobility, and slow disease progression. Treatment options encompass physical therapy and joint preservation techniques, medications (such as pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs), and lifestyle modifications (including regular exercise and weight management).
Procedure of Osteoarthritis Surgery
Preoperative Assessment: Before surgery, a thorough evaluation is conducted to determine the most effective surgical approach and assess the extent of joint damage. This includes reviewing the patient’s medical history, conducting a physical examination, and utilizing imaging techniques like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or X-rays.
Anesthesia: To ensure the patient’s comfort and safety during the procedure, either general or regional anesthesia is administered. The choice of anesthesia depends on the specific surgery being performed and the patient’s overall health.
Incision: A surgical incision is made over the affected joint to provide access to the joint space. The size and location of the incision depend on the type of procedure being performed.
Joint Preparation: During joint replacement surgeries (such as knee or hip arthroplasty), damaged joint surfaces are removed, and the bone is reshaped to accommodate the prosthetic components. Other procedures, such as osteotomy or joint fusion, may involve realigning or fusing the bones to relieve pressure on the affected joint.
Implant Placement: Prosthetic components made of ceramic, metal, or plastic are securely inserted to replace the damaged joint surfaces. These components are designed to mimic the natural structure and function of the joint, enhancing mobility and reducing pain.
Closure: Once the procedure is complete, the surgical site is closed with sterile dressings and sutures or staples to promote healing and prevent infection.
Postoperative Care: After surgery, patients are monitored in the recovery room for any immediate complications. Pain management, antibiotics, and blood thinners may be prescribed to manage discomfort, prevent infection, and reduce the risk of blood clots. Physical therapy is typically initiated shortly after surgery to enhance joint mobility, strengthen surrounding muscles, and facilitate recovery.