Adult Joint Reconstruction
Total Joint Replacement Specialist
A total joint replacement is a surgical procedure that removes and replaces a worn, diseased, or damaged joint with an artificial joint, known as prosthesis, which mimics the function of the natural joint. The most commonly replaced joints are the knee, hip, and shoulder joint.
Anatomy of a Joint
A joint is created where the ends of two or more bones meet and are attached with thick tissues. The ends of the bones are covered with a smooth layer of cartilage, allowing the joint to move smoothly without friction or pain. The synovium, a tissue lining, surrounds the joint and produces a fluid to reduce friction and wear on the joint.
"My knee replacement surgery was performed six months ago, and I am so pleased. I am able to continue on with my life without pain. In fact, I don't even have to think about my knee. The quality of my life is so much better. Dr. Ballard is my hero.”
-- Doreen C., Total Knee Replacement
Benefits of a Total Joint Replacement
Total joint replacement is usually only recommended after less invasive approaches, such as physical therapy or corticosteroid injections, cannot alleviate the symptoms of pain or swelling. The most common benefits of a total joint replacement include:
- Pain relief
- Return to daily activities
- Improved movement and use of the joint
- Stabilization of the joint
How Is a Total Joint Replacement Surgery Performed?
In a total knee joint replacement surgery, the orthopedic surgeon will replace the entire damaged knee joint with metal and plastic surfaces that are shaped to restore knee movement and function.
In a total hip replacement surgery, the surgeon removes the damaged femoral head (upper end of the femur) and replaces it with a metal ball and stem fitted into the femur. Then, a plastic socket is implanted into the pelvis, replacing the damaged socket.
Along with the knee and hip, total joint replacement surgery can be performed in other joints, such as the ankle, shoulder, elbow, foot, and fingers.
Preparing For A Total Joint Replacement Surgery
Before the surgery, the orthopedic surgeon will recommend the patient to:
- Stop taking medications before the surgery
- Be in a physical therapy program to be strong enough at the time of the surgery
- Evaluate the discharge plans, physical therapy, and rehabilitation.
Contact Dr. Ballard's office today to learn more about joint replacement and schedule a consultation.
Possible Complications After A Total Joint Replacement Surgery
According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), nine out of ten patients have a successful total joint replacement surgery. However, the patient is expected to tell the orthopedic surgeon about any medical conditions that might affect the surgery. Additionally, when complications occur, most of them are successfully treatable. The most common possible complications include:
- Infection in the Joint
- Blood Clots
- Dislocation or Loosening of the Joint
- Wear
- Prosthetic Breakage
- Nerve Injuries
Total Joint Replacement Specialist in Oregon
Dr. James C. Ballard, MD, is a specialist in minimally invasive total joint replacement surgery. Dr. Ballard is committed to excellence by pledging to provide the highest quality of orthopedic care possible. To make an appointment with Dr. Ballard please call our office at (503) 656-0836.
Outpatient Joint Replacement Surgery
- Patients are able to return home the same day as the procedure
- Patients who are relatively healthy and highly motivated are eligible
- Patients begin physical therapy within hours of surgery
First Outpatient Total Joint in Northwest
Dr. Ballard performs the first total joint replacement in an outpatient setting to be done in the northwest. Learn more about Outpatient Joint Replacement.
