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Joint replacement surgery is a procedure that replaces a damaged or diseased joint with an artificial one. This can be done to relieve pain, improve function, and or restore mobility. There are many different types of joint replacement surgery, each of which is designed to treat a specific type of joint problem. Manipal Hospitals has the best orthopaedic doctors in Jaipur for joint replacement in the city.
The most common types of joint replacement surgery are hip replacement and knee replacement. Hip replacement is most often used to treat arthritis in the elderly, Arthritis is a condition that causes the cartilage in the hip joint to break down. Knee replacement is used to treat arthritis, as well as other conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Synopsis
Types of Joint Replacement Surgeries
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Knee Replacement (Partial or Total)
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Hip Replacement (Partial or Total)
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Elbow Surgery (Very rare, usually done in case of injuries)
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Shoulder Replacement
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Jaw Joint Replacement
Knee Replacement Surgery
Benefits:
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Significant reduction in knee pain
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Improved mobility and joint function
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Enhanced quality of life
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Long-lasting results (15–20+ years)
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Better ability to perform daily activities
Complications:
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Infection in the joint
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Blood clots in the legs or lungs
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Implant loosening or wear
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Knee stiffness or reduced range of motion
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Nerve or blood vessel injury
Hip Replacement Surgery
Benefits:
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Relief from chronic hip pain
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Restored mobility and hip function
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Better sleep and improved walking ability
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Increased independence and activity levels
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Long-term durability of the implant
Complications:
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Hip dislocation
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Infection around the implant
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Leg length discrepancy
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Blood clots
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Loosening or wear of the prosthetic
Elbow Replacement Surgery
Benefits:
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Decreased pain in arthritic or damaged elbows
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Improved range of motion
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Restored the ability to perform daily arm functions
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Enhanced elbow joint stability
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Improved quality of life
Complications:
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Infection
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Nerve damage
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Loosening or breaking of the implant
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Limited lifting ability
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Joint stiffness or instability
Shoulder Joint Replacement Surgery Pros and Cons
Benefits:
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Relief from shoulder pain
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Improved joint mobility and function
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Better sleep and daily activity performance
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Restoration of strength in the shoulder
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Long-lasting pain relief
Complications:
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Shoulder dislocation
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Nerve injury
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Infection
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Loosening of the prosthesis
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Limited range of motion in some cases
Jaw Joint (TMJ) Replacement Surgery
Benefits:
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Pain relief in severe TMJ disorders
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Improved ability to chew and speak
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Restoration of jaw function
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Correction of facial asymmetry in some cases
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Enhanced quality of life
Complications:
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Infection or implant failure
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Nerve damage or numbness
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Difficulty in jaw movement or stiffness
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Joint noise or instability
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Possible need for revision surgery
Common Benefits
Medical procedures have their benefits; some of the most common benefits sought with these procedures are:
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Pain Relief
Joint replacement surgery can provide significant pain relief. In most cases, patients experience immediate pain relief after surgery.
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Improved Function
Joint replacement surgery can improve function and mobility. Patients are often able to return to their normal activities after surgery.
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Restoration of Quality of Life
Joint replacement surgery can restore quality of life. Patients often report feeling more active and independent after surgery.
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Improvement of Life
For elderly people who feel restricted due to physical pain and mobility, joint replacement surgery can mean an elevation in their overall quality of life.
If you are considering joint replacement surgery, it is important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of the procedure. Your doctor can help you decide if joint replacement surgery is right for you.
Factors That Influence Surgical Risks
With every procedure, there are certain risks involved. Risk of complications: Joint replacement surgery is a major surgery, and it carries some risks of complications. These complications can include infection, blood clots, and nerve damage. Further, certain parameters around your health will also play a crucial role in risk assessment and mitigation.
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Your age
Joint replacement surgery is generally recommended for people who are older than 65 years old. However, younger people may also be candidates for surgery if they have severe pain, injury, infection or other conditions which can be relieved by surgery.
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Your Gender
Clinically, it has been recorded that women tend to have a lower bone density and are highly prone to bone-related injuries and fractures with the advancement of age.
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Your activity level
If you are active and participate in sports or other physical activities, and have suffered a sports injury, then joint replacement surgery might be a solution for you.
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Your overall health
If you have other health problems, such as heart disease or diabetes, you may be at a higher risk for complications from joint replacement surgery.
Pre-Surgery Preparation
If you decide to have joint replacement surgery, there are a few things you can do to prepare:
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Keep hydrated
Bone health is dependent on hydration; hence, keeping well hydrated is important.
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Mild exercise
Mild Exercise, Yoga and regular stretching can help maintain body agility and prevent stiffness.
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Lose weight
If you are overweight or obese, losing weight can help reduce the stress on your joints and make surgery easier.
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Get physical therapy
Physical therapy can help you improve your range of motion and strength before surgery.
Preparation for recovery, Joint replacement surgery requires recovery time. Patients typically stay in the hospital for a few days after surgery, and they may need to use a walker or crutches for several weeks. Preparing for appropriate arrangements is a good step towards being ready.
Conclusion
After joint replacement surgery, it is important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully. This includes taking your medications, keeping your wound clean, and participating in physical therapy. Manipal Hospitals has some of the best doctors for joint replacement surgery at the best orthopaedic hospital in Jaipur. If you have elderly loved ones struggling with mobility issues and joint pain, consult with our expert doctors to improve their quality of life.
FAQ's
The most common complication of joint replacement is infection, which can occur in the wound or around the artificial joint. Other possible complications include blood clots, implant loosening, joint stiffness, or nerve damage. However, with proper surgical technique, sterile practices, and post-operative care, the risk of major complications is low, and outcomes are generally excellent.
Most modern joint replacements, especially knees and hips, can last 15 to 20 years or more. With improved materials and surgical techniques, longevity is increasing. Regular low-impact activity, weight management, and proper care can help extend the lifespan of the implant. Revision surgery may be needed if the implant wears out or loosens over time.
Running is generally not recommended after knee replacement due to the high impact on the artificial joint, which can cause early wear or loosening. Instead, low-impact activities like walking, cycling, swimming, or using an elliptical are encouraged. Some patients may jog lightly under medical guidance, but it’s best to avoid high-impact sports.
There is no perfect age, but most knee replacements are performed on people between 50 and 80 years old. Younger patients may require a second surgery later in life, while older patients may face more surgical risks. The decision is based on the severity of joint damage, level of pain, mobility, and overall health.
Joint replacement surgery is considered safe and routine, with a high success rate. However, like any surgery, it carries risks such as infection, blood clots, nerve injury, or complications from anaesthesia. These risks are minimised with proper pre-operative assessment, experienced surgeons, and post-operative care. Most patients recover well and see significant improvement in mobility.
You can book a consultation for joint replacement surgery by contacting the Manipal Hospital’s orthopaedic department, either via phone, website, or mobile app. Many hospitals also offer online appointment scheduling and teleconsultation options. Make sure to carry relevant medical records, X-rays, and previous reports during your visit to help the doctor assess your condition accurately.
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