Hip, knee, or shoulder joint replacement surgery may be an option when joint pain limits your everyday activities such as walking and bending, sitting or standing for long periods, or stiffness in your leg that limits your ability to lift or move your limb. Joint replacements are artificial joints that are designed to replace the damaged or diseased areas of cartilage in order to mimic the function of a healthy human joint.
The primary reasons for hip or knee joint replacement surgery are to:
- Relieve pain
- Restore function
- Improve mobility
- Improve your quality of life
- Correct limb deformity
Is a total joint replacement right for you?
The decision to have joint replacement surgery is a cooperative one made by you, your family, and your orthopaedic surgeon. There are no absolute age or weight restrictions. The decision for surgery includes many factors including your disease, your overall health, and symptoms. Generally, patients benefit from joint replacement surgery if they experience pain that limits everyday activities such as walking and bending or sleeping.
How successful are total joint replacements?
Modern joint replacements are some of the most successful operations in all of medicine. The goal of hip and knee replacement surgery is to restore pain-free motion of the joint. Currently, more than 90% of total hip and knee replacements are still functioning well 15 years after surgery.
What diseases are most often treated with an artificial joint?
The most common cause of chronic joint pain is Osteoarthritis. This is the age-related “wear and tear” type of arthritis that leads to pain and stiffness. Total joint replacements are also often used in the treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis, Post-traumatic Arthritis and Avascular Necrosis.
Why should I choose Medical Associates to have my joint replacement surgery?
Patients choose us for our comprehensive, patient-centered care. With expertise in the latest surgical techniques, our orthopedic team offers a modern surgical unit in the heart of a state-of-the-art medical center. Our highly experienced team has an excellent record in successful hip and knee surgeries so you can get back to the activities you enjoy. Surgeries are performed at MercyOne Medical Center in Dubuque.
We were the first practice in the Tri-State area to offer:
- Robotic-assisted surgery
- Same-day surgery
- Pain management with minimal opioid use
What to expect at your appointment:
- A thorough evaluation and discussion of your specific needs
- Review of your X-rays and any additional records
- An in-depth conversation covering surgical and non-surgical treatment options
- Customized treatment plan to get you back to your active lifestyle
- Close follow-up to monitor your recovery and rehabilitation
