Hip or knee surgery isn’t something to take lightly. Shared decision making — a process where you discuss various treatment options with your physician — manages your expectations and prepares you for an upcoming procedure. During your initial consultation and follow-up appointments with an orthopedic surgeon, you can ask as many questions as like. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions from patients interested in hip or knee surgery.
Is Hip or Knee Surgery Right for Me and My Situation?
Hip or knee surgery isn’t for everyone. However, your surgeon might suggest joint replacement surgery if you experience hip or knee pain and want to improve mobility. Usually, this type of surgery is a last resort, and your surgeon might recommend alternative treatments before you have this procedure. These include physiotherapy and steroid injections.
When Is the Right Time for Hip or Knee Surgery?
Usually, there is no rush to get joint replacement surgery. If you feel ready for this procedure, talk to your surgeon about the options available to you.
Is It Worth the Expense?
Hip or knee replacements can last between 10 and 15 years, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. However, you should talk to your orthopedic surgeon about the costs of joint replacement surgery and whether it is worth the expense.
What Happens If You Wait Too Long Before Getting Hip or Knee Surgery?
In some cases, delaying joint replacement surgery could result in further medical problems. Putting off hip surgery, for example, increases the risk of pain, immobility and deterioration of the joints. It might also mean that less invasive procedures, like hip resurfacing, are no longer an option.
Joint replacement surgery is a relatively common procedure. More than 600,000 knees and around 400,000 hips are replaced in the United States every year. However, it is important you talk with your orthopedic surgeon about the best treatment in your circumstances.
Alabama Orthopaedic Surgeons specializes in hip and knee surgery and offers the highest-quality patient care. Do you qualify for joint replacement surgery? Click here to find out more.