When considering joint replacement surgery, we’ve all heard different things and had different recommendations from friends. “You need to get the Jiffy Knee!” “I had robotic assisted surgery and that’s why I’m walking now.” “My surgeon used this new kind of implant and it works wonders!”
The truth is that hip and knee replacement surgery can be performed using a variety of surgical approaches, techniques, and implants. Fortunately, many clinical studies have shown that the majority of patients do very well, regardless of the approach or technology used.
It turns out the most important factor for your successful outcome is not whether a robot is used, the surgical approach or the implant used. The most important factor in your outcomes after surgery is if you were an appropriate candidate for joint replacement from the beginning.
What matters most?
The single most important factor in ensuring the best outcome and your satisfaction with your hip or knee replacement surgery is making sure you are an appropriate candidate for surgery in the first place.Given that clinical studies have confirmed that between 10-20% of joint replacement surgeries are done prematurely or on a patient who wasn’t a candidate for the surgery, it is critical to know whether or not you are receiving the best treatment for you.
So, how do you know when you are a good candidate for surgery? First of all, your X-rays should show advanced arthritis, meaning very little or no cartilage remaining (this is also called “bone-on-bone”). However,X-rays alone don’t determine whether you’re ready for surgery. The decision is also based on your pain and how it effects your lifestyle as well as your expectations for your life after surgery. Your prior treatments and general health all play important roles in deciding whether joint replacement is right for you.
Deciding on surgery with confidence
Not sure if joint replacement surgery is right for you? Geta second opinion before making your decision. The Joint Effort Second Opinion program combines the clinical expertise of Dr. Tony DiGioia with advanced AI/MachineLearning technology. A Joint Effort Second Opinion will help you better understand your hip or knee arthritis, and evaluate whether joint replacement is appropriate, all so that you can make a more informed decision. Be sure that a joint replacement is the right choice for you and get it at the right time.