Arthritis surgery

Surgical procedures can be performed to treat damaged joints caused by arthritis. This can involve fixing or replacing damaged joints or correcting deformities to relieve pain and improve mobility. As arthritis progresses, the cartilage (the protective tissue between the bones) wears down, leading to joint pain and stiffness. Surgery can be an effective treatment option if your arthritis doesn’t improve with other treatments like medication, injections, or physical therapy.

Surgery for arthritis is performed by orthopaedic surgeons who may work with other specialists, such as rheumatologists and plastic surgeons. Penn Medicine Orthopaedics offers a range of advanced arthritis surgical techniques, including minimally invasive and robot-assisted surgery.

Surgeons often recommend arthritis surgery if you have arthritis and meet any of the following criteria:

• Pain: Severe joint pain that limits physical activity, such as walking or climbing stairs.
• Inflammation: Chronic joint inflammation that doesn’t improve with rest or medication.
• Structural damage: Significant joint damage from a previous injury, like a fracture or dislocation, causing post-traumatic arthritis where the joint wears down prematurely.
• Other treatments didn’t work: Treatments like anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, or assistive devices (such as canes or walkers) haven’t provided enough relief.

To ensure a successful recovery, it’s important to take steps to prepare for your arthritis surgery. Your health-care team may recommend the following:

• Quit smoking: Smoking can slow healing, so try to quit before surgery.
• Limit alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption for at least 48 hours before surgery.
• Maintain a healthy diet: Good nutrition supports your body’s healing process. Eat a balanced diet rich in nutrients.
• Manage weight: If you’re overweight, consider losing weight before surgery. This can reduce stress on your joints and improve your overall recovery.

You’ll likely have a medical examination within 30 days of your procedure along with some tests, such as blood tests or urine samples, to be sure you’re ready for surgery. Your doctor will answer any questions and outline what to expect on the day of your surgery, based on the specific arthritis surgery you’re having.

Recovery time after arthritis surgery depends on factors such as the type of surgery, your overall health, and how well you follow your doctor’s instructions.

• Pain management: You may experience some pain, swelling, and stiffness, especially in the first few weeks after surgery. Your doctor will prescribe pain medication to help manage your discomfort.
• Mobility aids: You may need to use a cane, crutches, or other assistive devices for a while to support your joints and prevent falls.
• Activity limitations: You’ll need to avoid activities that put stress on your joints, such as lifting heavy objects and making sudden movements.
• Physical therapy: Work with your physical therapist to regain mobility, manage pain, and improve your range of motion through specific exercises and manual therapies to help you recover.

All surgical procedures carry some risks, and these may vary depending on the type and location of the surgery.

• Bleeding
• Blood clots
• Nerve injury
• Infection around the prosthesis
• Malfunction of prosthetic parts
• Stiffness or pain that doesn’t go away

At Penn Medicine, we specialize in restoring joint function and reducing pain with the latest treatments. Our team offers comprehensive care, from nonsurgical options to advanced, minimally invasive surgeries.

• Robotic-assisted surgery: Our surgeons use this innovative technology to perform highly precise joint replacement surgeries.
• Specialized scans: 3D imaging provides your surgeon with a detailed view of your joint, allowing them to plan every step of the surgery and make precise incisions down to the millimeter.
• Advanced materials: We use state-of-the-art materials, such as ceramic bearings in hip and knee replacements, to ensure long-term benefits. Ceramic implants reduce the need for revision surgery, minimize bone deterioration, and lower the risk of joint loosening or dislocation.
• Minimally invasive procedures: Whenever possible, we use minimally invasive techniques to reduce recovery time and improve outcomes.