Dr Jason Ward is dedicated to giving people back their quality of life, and for many people living with osteoarthritis, joint replacement surgery can help to manage their mobility and pain.
The aim of treatment is to restore function to the joint, giving you back your confidence and reducing pain.
It is good to know that there is an alternative to living in pain and discomfort and that within months, you could be out-and-about with improved function and reduced pain.
Understanding Joint Replacement Surgery
Joint replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, is a medical procedure in which a damaged joint is replaced with a prosthesis. This surgery is most commonly performed on the knee and hip joints, which are crucial for mobility and daily activities.
Dr Jason Ward, a leading orthopaedic surgeon in Adelaide, specialises in both knee and hip joint replacements, offering patients relief from chronic pain and improved quality of life.
The Need for Joint Replacement
The primary reason for joint replacement surgery is to alleviate pain and restore function in joints severely affected by arthritis, trauma, or other degenerative conditions. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the most common conditions leading to joint deterioration. These conditions cause the cartilage that cushions the joints to wear away, resulting in pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility.
When conservative treatments such as medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes fail to provide relief, joint replacement surgery becomes a viable option.
Types of Joint Replacement
Dr Ward performs two main types of joint replacement surgeries: knee and hip replacements.
- Knee Replacement Surgery:
Knee replacement surgery involves the removal of damaged cartilage and bone from the knee joint, which are then replaced with artificial components made of metal alloys, high-grade plastics, and polymers. There are two primary types of knee replacement surgeries:
- Total Knee Replacement (TKR): This procedure involves replacing the entire knee joint. It is recommended for patients with severe arthritis or significant knee damage.
- Partial Knee Replacement (PKR): Also known as unicompartmental knee replacement, this surgery replaces only the damaged part of the knee. It is suitable for patients with localised arthritis in one part of the knee.
- Hip Replacement Surgery:
Hip replacement surgery involves replacing the damaged hip joint with a prosthetic implant. The hip joint is a ball-and-socket joint, and the surgery replaces the ball (femoral head) and the socket (acetabulum). There are different approaches to hip replacement surgery:
- Total Hip Replacement (THR): This involves replacing both the acetabulum and the femoral head with prosthetic components. It is commonly performed for patients with severe hip arthritis or fractures.
- Partial Hip Replacement: Also known as hemiarthroplasty, this procedure replaces only the femoral head. It is typically performed for certain types of hip fractures.
The Surgical Process
Preoperative Assessment:
Before undergoing joint replacement surgery, patients undergo a thorough preoperative assessment. This includes a detailed medical history, physical examination, imaging studies (such as X-rays or MRI), and blood tests. Dr Ward evaluates the patient's overall health, the extent of joint damage, and any underlying medical conditions to determine the most appropriate surgical approach.
The Procedure:
Joint replacement surgeries are typically performed under general or regional anaesthesia. The surgical process involves the following steps:
- Incision: A surgical incision is made over the affected joint to access the damaged area.
- Removal of Damaged Tissue: The damaged cartilage and bone are carefully removed, preserving as much healthy bone and tissue as possible.
- Placement of Prosthesis: The artificial joint components are fitted and secured in place. In the case of knee replacements, the components are attached to the femur, tibia, and patella. For hip replacements, the acetabular component is inserted into the pelvis, and the femoral component is placed into the femur.
- Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or staples, and a sterile dressing is applied.
Postoperative Care and Rehabilitation:
Postoperative care is crucial for the success of joint replacement surgery. Patients typically stay in the hospital for a few days following the procedure. Pain management, physical therapy, and early mobilisation are essential components of recovery.
Dr Ward and his team provide personalised rehabilitation plans to help patients regain strength, flexibility, and function in the replaced joint.
Benefits and Risks
Benefits:
- Pain Relief: One of the most significant benefits of joint replacement surgery is the relief from chronic pain that patients experience.
- Improved Mobility: Patients often regain a significant range of motion and the ability to perform daily activities without discomfort.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: With reduced pain and improved mobility, patients can enjoy a better quality of life and participate in activities they previously avoided.
Risks:
As with any surgical procedure, joint replacement surgery carries certain risks. These may include infection, blood clots, implant loosening, nerve injury, and complications related to anaesthesia. Dr Ward takes all necessary precautions to minimise these risks and ensure a successful outcome.
Joint replacement surgery is a highly effective solution for individuals suffering from severe joint pain and mobility issues.
Dr Jason Ward, with his expertise in knee and hip replacements, is dedicated to providing personalised care and state-of-the-art surgical techniques to help patients achieve optimal outcomes.
Through comprehensive preoperative assessment, meticulous surgical procedures, and tailored postoperative care, Dr Ward ensures that his patients in Adelaide can look forward to a pain-free and active future.