The advances in joint replacement technology and techniques have made joint replacement procedures more common than ever before. The age spectrum is becoming broader and broader among those who can have these procedures done successfully.
Joint replacement is also now much easier for patients, as an increasing number of orthopedic surgeons now offer minimally invasive surgical methods. This means less blood loss during surgery, much smaller incisions, and less time to heal after the operation. The prosthetic materials used in joint surgery have also become better practically every year.
Read on to find out how joint replacement has been made better for you.
Minimally Invasive Joint Replacement Surgery
Joint operation procedures can often be completed through minimally invasive techniques. When a procedure is considered minimally invasive, it means the surgeon makes smaller incisions than with traditional open surgery; the surgeon usually utilizes image-guided tools with miniature cameras to help guide the manipulation of the surgical instruments.
With smaller incisions, there will be less damage to the skin, muscle, and surrounding tissues during surgery. Less damage means healing will be faster.
Many patients who undergo minimally invasive joint replacement can go home on the same day. They can, therefore, begin post-operative physical therapy sooner. Ultimately, the sooner you can begin rehabilitation, the sooner you can return to an active lifestyle.
Advancements in Tools and Prosthetic Materials
Artificial joints are now more stable and durable as compared to how they were years ago. A bone prosthesis that has adjacent bone material which has naturally fastened onto the prosthetic has much less of a chance of loosening. The plastics used for sockets of artificial joints are more durable, and the materials to replace missing cartilage – such as in arthritis – are much better than their older counterparts.
Technological advancements have allowed people to overcome hip, knee, and shoulder problems that were impossible to in the past. The improved prosthetics have lessened patients’ pain and improved their mobility.
On-Site Physical Therapy Services
Physical therapy is crucial to the effectiveness of the surgical procedure. Physical therapy can speed up healing, help with pain management, and properly restore range of motion after joint replacement surgery.
An orthopedic surgery center that also offers on-site physical therapy services makes it especially convenient for patients. With physical therapy as a key part of our comprehensive services, your physical rehabilitation is performed seamlessly – no new locations to find and become familiar with.
Orthopedic Surgery in Baltimore
Our comprehensive clinic at the Orthopaedic Associates of Central Maryland offers advanced, effective surgery and physical therapy in our locations across Baltimore and the Washington, D.C. metro area.
Our board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons are leaders in all areas of musculoskeletal surgery. We provide advanced reconstructive surgery, joint replacement surgery, and physical therapy.
For any orthopedic problems such as arthritis or hip, knee, shoulder, or neck pain, contact us today and schedule a consultation. Call (410) 644-1880 or (855) 4MD-BONE (463-2663) or request an appointment online, and we will help you determine which orthopedic treatment is best for you – and get you back to the life you love.
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