When conservative (nonsurgical) treatments fail to remedy your joint pain and chronic discomfort, it’s most likely time for you to consider joint replacement surgery options. Thankfully, these are safe and effective procedures that can relieve your joint pain and improve your mobility.
However, not all joint replacement surgeries are equal. To get the greatest benefit from your joint replacement, there are certain factors you need to take into consideration.
Let’s talk about some of those factors when making your decision, and where you can go in Greater Cleveland for world-class orthopedic treatment to finally achieve relief from your joint pain.
Surgical Factors for a Joint Replacement
Doctor (Orthopedic Surgeon)
One of the most powerful predictors of your surgery’s success is the skill of your surgeon. Thus, you need to find an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in the particular procedure you need. This doctor will also need to have enough experience, meaning they have performed this operation many times, and they currently perform it on a regular basis. (You don’t want a surgeon who is “rusty”!)
Facility
Also important is the clinic or hospital with which the surgeon is affiliated. You will want to have your joint replacement performed at a facility where your particular operation is frequently conducted.
These facilities are most likely to have state-of-the-art equipment and up-to-date techniques. They’re also going to have experienced medical support staff who can watch out for any issues during your operation, and physical therapists who will get you moving practically right away after the surgery.
Implant Manufacturer/Brand
Implants (prosthetic joints) which are used for total joint replacements are often allowed on the market even without approval from the FDA. When this is the case, the patient must first sign a release form acknowledging that this information is understood.
Most joint implants have no problems and do an excellent job. However, if these devices are ever recalled – as experienced by some major knee and hip implant manufacturers – patients shoulder the costs of another surgery.
Patient-Related Factors
Some doctors and patients elect to delay joint replacement surgery, as joint implants tend to last for about 20 years. Having the surgery done too soon can put you at risk of developing complications, which may then require a “revision joint surgery” operation.
On the other hand, waiting too long can cause your condition to deteriorate. Your joint can become worse and worse, and after a while you also may not feel healthy enough for such an operation.
Be sure to consult with your orthopedic doctor about this matter, as they can help you determine the right time to have joint replacement surgery.
Joint Replacement in Westlake and Avon, OH
If you are looking for an experienced orthopedic medical team who specializes in performing joint replacement surgery in Greater Cleveland – namely, in Westlake and Avon – Orthopaedic Associates is here for you.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation with one of our outstanding doctors in Avon or Westlake, contact our friendly staff today by calling us at (440) 892-1440 or toll-free at (866) 362-7624. You may also fill out our easy-to-use online form now. We look forward to serving you!
