Joint Arthroplasty
Joint Arthroplasty (Endoprosthetics) - is a high-technology surgical intervention that involves the replacement of damaged or destroyed joint components with artificial implants (endoprostheses).
Arthroplasty of the following Joint (Endoprosthetics):
Objectives of the Procedure:
- Elimination of chronic pain syndrome.
- Restoration of full or maximally achievable range of motion in the joint.
- Return of the patient to full domestic and social activity.
1. Key Indications
The surgery is a radical method of treatment and is indicated when conservative measures (medication, physical therapy) are no longer effective, and the patient's quality of life is significantly reduced due to pain and restricted mobility.
Primary Indications:
- Deforming Arthrosis (Osteoarthritis) Stage III-IV (coxarthrosis, gonarthrosis).
- Aseptic Necrosis of the femoral head.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis and other systemic diseases involving joint damage (e.g., Ankylosing Spondylitis/Bechterew's disease).
- Consequences of Trauma: intra-articular fractures, non-union of fractures that cannot be restored by other methods.
- Dysplasia of the joints.
2. Types and Materials of Endoprostheses
Endoprostheses are manufactured from high-strength, wear-resistant, and biocompatible materials such as titanium alloys, cobalt-chromium alloys, ceramics, and ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene.
- Total Arthroplasty: replacement of all articulating joint surfaces.
- Partial Arthroplasty (Hemiarthroplasty): replacement of only one joint component (e.g., only the femoral head).
3. Service Life of the Endoprosthesis
Modern endoprostheses demonstrate high durability.
- On average, the service life of a high-quality endoprosthesis is **15-25 years.
- In older patients with moderate physical activity, the prosthesis may last longer.
- Upon expiry of this period, or in the case of loosening/wear, a revision arthroplasty (repeat surgery) may be required.
4. Rehabilitation
The success of the surgery heavily depends on well-planned and timely rehabilitation.
- Early Stage (First 1-3 weeks):
- Prevention of complications.
- Instruction on ambulation with crutches/walkers.
- Execution of minimal active and passive exercises.
- Breathing exercises.
- The patient begins to stand up as early as day 1-2 post-operation.
- Late Stage (3-10 weeks):
- Gradual increase in load-bearing.
- Strengthening of musculature surrounding the operated joint.
- Restoration of the full range of motion.
- The main goal - learning to walk without the aid of support devices.
- Long-term Stage (From 3-4 months up to 1 year):
- Full restoration of motor skills.
- Return to sports activities (swimming, cycling) under physician supervision.
Joint arthroplasty is one of the most effective treatments for advanced stages of diseases and injuries of the musculoskeletal system. It allows not only for the elimination of severe pain but also for a dramatic improvement in the quality of life, restoring the individual's ability to move, work, and engage in daily activities. The durability of modern implants and a comprehensive approach to rehabilitation make this surgery a reliable solution for restoring lost joint function.
