Joint replacement surgery is a common and effective treatment for patients who suffer from debilitating joint pain or loss of function, often caused by arthritis, trauma, or degenerative joint disease. It involves removing damaged portions of the joint and replacing them with artificial components designed to replicate the movement and stability of a natural joint.
This procedure can be performed on several joints, including the hip, knee, shoulder, ankle, and even small joints in the fingers. At Joseph Cohn, MD, FAAOS in Harker Heights, TX, Dr. Joseph Cohn uses advanced diagnostic tools to determine whether joint replacement is the best course of treatment for each patient. The goal is always to reduce pain, restore mobility, and improve quality of life when conservative measures no longer provide relief.
As joint damage progresses, daily tasks like walking, climbing stairs, or getting out of a chair can become increasingly difficult. When non-surgical treatments such as medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications fail, joint replacement offers a reliable and long-term solution.
Advances in Surgical Techniques
Modern joint replacement has seen significant advancements in recent years. Minimally invasive techniques, robotic-assisted surgery, and custom 3D-printed implants have transformed the procedure from a last resort into a proactive step toward restored movement.
Minimally invasive joint replacement uses smaller incisions and refined surgical instruments to reduce tissue trauma. This leads to less pain after surgery, a shorter hospital stay, and a faster return to daily activities. In some cases, these surgeries are performed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to go home the same day.
Robotic-assisted systems offer another layer of precision. These systems allow surgeons like Dr. Cohn to map out the surgical area in 3D, improving implant alignment and soft tissue balance. This reduces the risk of complications such as joint instability or uneven wear on the artificial components.
Customized implants based on patient-specific imaging are also available. These are designed to match the natural anatomy of the joint more closely, which can enhance comfort and extend the lifespan of the replacement.
Types of Joint Replacement Procedures
Joint replacement procedures vary depending on the joint affected and the extent of the damage. The most common types include:
- Total Joint Replacement: The entire joint surface is replaced with artificial components. This is common in hips and knees.
- Partial Joint Replacement: Only the damaged part of the joint is replaced, preserving healthy bone and tissue. Often used for early-stage arthritis in the knee.
- Revision Surgery: Replacement of a previous implant that has worn out, loosened, or failed due to complications.
Hip replacements typically involve replacing the ball-and-socket joint with metal or ceramic components, while knee replacements use metal and plastic parts to cap the ends of bones that form the knee joint. Shoulder replacements may replace just the ball of the upper arm bone or both the ball and socket, depending on the severity of damage.
Each procedure is tailored to the patient’s specific anatomy, level of activity, and long-term goals. Dr. Cohn takes time to explain the different options and helps patients select the one that best meets their needs.
Preparing for Surgery
Preparation for joint replacement begins weeks before the actual surgery. Patients undergo a comprehensive medical evaluation to ensure they are healthy enough for anesthesia and the healing process. Preoperative lab tests, EKGs, and imaging are commonly part of this evaluation.
Lifestyle changes may also be recommended. Smokers are encouraged to quit, as smoking interferes with bone healing. Managing blood sugar levels, optimizing nutrition, and improving physical fitness are additional strategies used to enhance surgical outcomes.
Patients are typically advised to begin prehabilitation, or “prehab,” to strengthen muscles and improve range of motion before surgery. This makes recovery smoother and helps preserve independence in the early post-operative period. Dr. Cohn’s team provides personalized pre-op instructions, including what to bring on surgery day and how to prepare the home for a safe recovery.
What to Expect During Recovery
Recovery from joint replacement varies based on the type of joint replaced and the patient’s overall health. Most patients stay in the hospital for one to three days, although same-day discharges are becoming more common with minimally invasive approaches.
Post-operative care focuses on pain management, infection prevention, and early mobilization. Physical therapy begins soon after surgery, often on the same day or next morning, to reduce stiffness and promote healing. Patients are encouraged to walk, bend, and use their new joint under the guidance of a therapist.
Recovery timelines differ:
- Knee Replacement: Patients typically resume most daily activities within six weeks, with full recovery taking three to six months.
- Hip Replacement: Many patients return to normal routines within four to six weeks, with ongoing improvements up to a year.
- Shoulder Replacement: Healing may take longer, with full range of motion gradually returning over several months.
Throughout the recovery process, follow-up appointments with Dr. Cohn ensure that the joint is healing well and any concerns are addressed early. Patients are guided through exercises, milestones, and any modifications to activity levels.
Long-Term Outlook and Lifestyle Adjustments
Joint replacements are designed to last many years, with modern implants often functioning well for 15 to 20 years or more. While high-impact sports should be avoided, most patients can return to walking, cycling, swimming, and even light hiking without issue.
Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to preserving the longevity of the implant. Excess weight puts additional stress on the joint, increasing the risk of wear or loosening. A balanced diet, regular low-impact exercise, and avoidance of tobacco are also key to long-term success.
Patients should notify all healthcare providers about their artificial joint, particularly before undergoing any procedures that may increase infection risk. In some cases, antibiotics may be recommended before dental work or invasive procedures.
Joint replacement can restore a patient’s confidence, reduce dependence on medication, and renew participation in hobbies and daily life. At Joseph Cohn, MD, FAAOS, the focus remains on helping each individual achieve a level of comfort and function that supports their personal goals.
Resources
Berend, M. E., Lombardi, A. V., & Mallory, T. H. (2010). Minimally invasive total joint arthroplasty. The Journal of Arthroplasty.
Sloan, M., Sheth, N. P., & Lee, G.-C. (2018). Contemporary Total Knee Arthroplasty Outcomes. Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research.
Dorr, L. D., & Boiardo, R. A. (1986). Technical considerations in total hip arthroplasty. Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research.
