Major joints in the body are the hip, knee and shoulder. A joint is a special structure in the body where the ends of 2 or more bones meet. Cartilage covers the ends of the bones and "cushions" them for smooth, easy movement.
When a joint is diseased, such as with arthritis, the cartilage wears away. The bones become rough and grind together, causing pain and disability.
The main benefit of total joint replacement is pain relief. The decision to undergo surgery is a personal one. At Wake Forest Baptist Health, our orthopaedic surgeons evaluate each patient and work with you to develop a treatment plan that is right for you, your condition, and your lifestyle.
Non-surgical treatment may be an option for you. If so, your physician may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, individually designed home exercise program, or a combination of these.
If surgery is your best option, our joint replacement program offers a full menu of surgical options that fit patients of all ages and activity levels. We use the latest technology and advanced techniques to offer minimally invasive surgical options when possible. That means less pain for you and shorter recovery times.
Surgical treatments include:
- Hip arthroscopy
- Hip replacement - anterior approach
- Hip replacement - posterior approach
- Hip resurfacing
- Hip revision
- Partial hip replacement
- Knee replacement
- Knee revision
- Partial knee replacement
Joint Replacement Surgery Rehabilitation
Depending on your condition, your recovery and exercise plan will be tailored to meet your needs. Each patient recovers differently and revisions often progress at a slower pace than the initial joint replacement surgery.
Your stay in the hospital will be short and your recovery will be continued after discharge in your home with family, or at an extended care rehab center. It is important for you to make a commitment to follow your doctor’s instructions and work on your exercise plan in order to benefit most after joint replacement surgery. Learn ways to prepare your home for your return after joint replacement surgery to make you comfortable and help with your recovery.
Same Day Hip and Knee Surgery
Patients who qualify for same-day total joint replacement surgery can have surgery in the morning and go home later the same day. Same-day surgery is available for:
Patients should:
- Have good overall health
- Have a strong support system at home
