The Joint Replacement Institute

If you need knee or hip replacement surgery...but keep putting it off, you might be pleasantly surprised by St. Mary's upbeat approach. Since most orthopedic surgery patients actually are not sick, St. Mary's Western-themed unit lightens the mood even more.

Patients enjoy visiting with and encouraging each other, and even competing for the number of steps walked each day. St. Mary's believes the support from staff, family members and fellow patients is a necessary element for rebuillding the patient's sense of independence and confidence.

Friendly pre-op classes to describe the surgical procedures in simple terms
Meet the staff
Guidebook that outlines the surgery, what to expect afterward and important exercises to promote a quicker recovery
Twice-daily physical therapy in a group setting for all patients

For more information, please call 580-249-9379.

Osteoarthritis

What is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, is a wear and tear condition that destroys joint cartilage. Sometimes as the result of trauma, repetitive movement, or for no apparent reason, the cartilage wears down, exposing bone ends.

What is cartilage?
Joint cartilage is a tough, smooth tissue that covers the ends of bones where joints are located. It helps cushion the bones during movement, and because it is smooth and slippery, it allows for motion with minimal friction.

How do I know if I have osteoarthritis?
There are numerous causes of joint pain that are not related to arthritis. Your physician will use your medical history, examination, X-rays and possibly blood work to determine if you have arthritis and the type.

How is osteoarthritis treated?
Common non-surgical treatments include:

exercise or physical therapy
pain relievers
weight reduction (if you are overweight)
walking devices
braces
rest
ice

If these treatments do not provide adequate relief from pain, joint replacement may be an option.

Is total joint replacement only for people with osteoarthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis, arthritis resulting from previous injury, correction of bone deformities and trauma are several conditions treatable by joint replacement surgery.

Which parts of the body does arthritis affect?
The most commonly affected joints are:

knees
hips
fingers
shoulders
back

Knee Replacement

What treatment options are available?
Conservative treatments may include:

physical therapy
weight loss
medication
braces
activity modification

When conservative treatments fail to provide relief from pain, your surgeon may recommend total knee replacement.

What is total knee replacement?
Total knee replacement, also called arthroplasty, involves removing the diseased bone and cartilage and resurfacing them with orthopedic implants. The damaged bone ends are then resurfaced with components designed to recreate the natural contours of the bones in a healthy knee. Metal and polyethylene (plastic) implants allow the bones to smoothly glide against each other, much like natural cartilage.

What kind of recovery can I expect?
Exercise is necessary for proper healing. Therapy will begin in the hospital and usually continues after discharge for approximately six weeks.

Diligent physical therapy, proper diet and a willingness to follow all of your surgeon's recommendations will contribute to a successful recovery after surgery. Most patients are able to walk without support and drive three to six weeks after surgery.

Can I participate in regular activities after surgery?
Patients with total knee replacement typically are able to participate in low-impact activities. Golfing, walking and swimming are a few examples of low-impact activities. Talk to your doctor before participating in an activity that may place excess stress on your knee.

Hip Replacement

Total hip replacement, also called arthroplasty, involves removing the diseased bone and cartilage and resurfacing them with orthopedic implants.

During surgery, the joint is exposed by an incision made on the side of the hip. The head of the femur (ball) is removed to allow for the replacement hip component, which is made of a biocompatible (body friendly) metal alloy such as cobalt chromium or titanium.

The acetabulum (socket) is then shaped to accept the new cup, which is pressed into place.

There are several materials that can be used to line the cup in your pelvis, including polyethylene (plastic) and metal. It is important to discuss these options with your surgeon.

What kind of recovery can I expect?
Exercise is necessary for proper healing. Your surgeon may recommend therapy to assist with gentle leg movement, strengthening and mobility exercises between 24-48 hours after surgery. Therapy will begin in the hospital and usually continues after discharge for approximately six weeks.

Can I participate in regular activities after surgery?
Patients with total hip replacement typically are able to participate in low-impact activities after surgery. Golfing, walking and swimming are a few examples of low-impact activities. Talk to your doctor before participating in an activity that may place excess stress on your hip.

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