These are surgical procedures that place a metal and plastic covering on debilitated, arthritic bone ends. They replace cartilage that has worn away.

What Is the Indication for Knee & Hip Replacement?

Knee or hip replacement is indicated when the degenerative process of arthritis weakens these joints.

Am I a Candidate for Knee or Hip Replacement?

You may be a good candidate knee or hip replacement if arthritic knee or hip pain severely limits your ability to walk, work or perform everyday activities.

What Does the Surgery Involve?

Hip Replacement

Hip replacement surgery involves removing the arthritic head of the femur and inserting a new, titanium mesh socket. Then a thigh piece, called a taper stem, fits into the femoral bone. It has a head on its top that fits into the socket. The prosthetic components are held in place by a tight grip between the titanium mesh and the bone.

Minimally invasive total hip replacement surgery uses a single incision of 2.5 to 3 inches, compared to 8 to 12 inches for conventional hip surgery. The smaller incision, usually placed over the outside of the hip, reduces the recovery time because the surgeon is doing less damage to the muscles, which regain their mobility and tone faster.

Knee Replacement:

Minimally invasive total knee replacement surgery uses a single incision of 3 to 5 inches, compared to 8-10 inches for conventional knee surgery. In minimally invasive knee replacement surgery, the knee joint is accessed without cutting through the quadricep tendon.

Note: these are not arthroscopic surgeries, which only remove cartilage. Arthoscopic surgery does not use a wide enough incision to insert the knee or hip implant.

What Are The Advantages Of Surgery?

Replacement can eliminate pain and allow you to move easily. For many people who have knee arthritis, it also straightens the leg. Minimally invasive hip replacement has a significant advantage over traditional surgery because of reduced incision size and shortened recovery time.

How Long Does It Take?

Knee replacement typically takes about 2 hours. Minimally invasive hip replacement takes about 2-4 hours.

How Many Treatments Are Required?

Only one treatment is required.

When Will I See Results?

After you heal from the surgery, you should start seeing results, because you have new joints.

What Are My Alternatives to Knee or Hp Replacement?

Knee or hip replacement is only recommended after careful diagnosis of your joint problem. Arthroscopic surgery is not helpful once arthritis is advanced, so replacement is then necessary.

Will I Have Pain?

Anesthetic is used during the procedure, so pain should be not be a major issue, but there may be a small amount of postoperative pain. Pain is usually managed well with prescription or over-the counter analgesics.

When Can I Go Back To Work Or School?

The usual hospital stay for either knee or hip replacement is three to four days. Physical therapy for a few weeks is required. You may have to use a walker for 2-4 weeks. In about 4-6 weeks, you can return to light activities.

Who Will Perform My Treatment?

The surgery will be performed by one of our highly-trained orthopedic surgeons.

How Much Does It Cost?

Please call TopSurgeons at 800-506-8084 for more information.

Will My Insurance Cover Knee or Hip Replacement?

Most insurance companies cover knee & hip replacements. However, you should check with your insurance company to determine whether a preauthorization review is required.