A total joint replacement surgery, or an arthroplasty, removes an arthritic or damaged joint from the body and replaces it with an artificial joint, or prosthesis. This surgery can be performed almost anywhere in the body but is most often used for the hip and knee joints. Additionally, a joint replacement can be performed to protect joints from the effects of avascular necrosis (bone death) and other bone disorders.
The goals of a total joint replacement surgery include:
- Safely reconstructing the joint
- Promoting long-lasting pain relief
- Improving the function of the joint
- Protecting surrounding muscles, ligaments, and tendons
Ultimately, the artificial joint will perform like your natural joint – without the pain.