Dr Johnson provides a variety of specialised and general orthopaedics.

What is arthroplasty?

Arthroplasty is a surgical procedure to restore the function of a joint. A joint can be restored by resurfacing the bones. An artificial joint (called a prosthesis) may also be used. Various types of arthritis may affect the joints. Osteoarthritis, or degenerative joint disease, is a loss of the cartilage or cushion in a joint, and is the most common reason for arthroplasty.

 

 

Why might I need arthroplasty?

Arthroplasty may be used when medical treatments no longer effectively relieve joint pain and disability. Some medical treatments for osteoarthritis that may be used before arthroplasty include:

• Anti-inflammatory medicines
• Pain medicines
• Limiting painful activities
• Assistive devices for walking (such as a cane)
• Physical therapy
• Cortisone injections into a knee joint
• Viscosupplementation injections (to add lubrication into the joint to make joint movement less painful)
• Weight loss (for obese people)
• Exercise and conditioning
• People who have arthroplasty generally have substantial improvement in their joint pain, ability to perform activities, and quality of life. Most joint surgery involves the hip and knee, with surgery on the ankle, elbow, shoulder, and fingers being done less often.