Joint pain can really put a damper on your quality of life. It can make you dread grocery shopping and keep you indoors, locked away from the life you worked so hard for. Depending on the severity and cause of your joint pain, you may have the option presented of having a joint reconstruction versus a joint replacement.
What is Joint Reconstruction?
Joint reconstruction is a surgical procedure that is used to repair and restore full function to a given joint. New surgical techniques and technologies are offering hope for those who wish to preserve and repair a joint (reconstruction) versus replacing one. The main reason being that once a joint has been replaced, it can never again be placed back together as a complete, natural unit. Replacing a joint means exactly that, man-made components replace the bone and tissues of a joint. A skilled surgeon can often salvage a joint, preserving as much of the natural bone and tissue as possible.
What is Joint Replacement?
Joint replacement, on the other hand, is the complete removal of a problem or damaged joint and replacing it with an entirely new joint. In some cases, the natural joint cannot be repaired. This may be caused by a degenerative disease or a traumatic injury. In the past, there were few options when it came to a total joint replacement. Now there are customized joints that more closely match the natural movement and range of motion.
Additionally, you may need only a partial joint replacement. In such surgeries, the surgeon preserves as much of the natural tissues and bones as possible and adds only the sections that cannot be repaired with man-made, durable components.
Most Common Causes of Reconstruction and Replacement
- Osteoarthritis: Painful joint stiffness and inflammation caused by daily wear and tear
- Inflammatory Conditions: Gout (an excessive buildup of uric acid in the body), and other degenerative/autoimmune disorders
- Trauma: Various types of injuries can be caused by improper body mechanics, car accidents, or sports-related trauma
Even though you may suffer from one, or many, of the above, surgery may not be your best option. Your doctor will always start off with the least invasive treatments and move forward from there, and always keeping your best interest, goals, and unique needs in mind. Some patients, for instance, require only additional bracing or rehabilitative medicine.
Dr. Carrol is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, specializing in minimally invasive hip, knee, and shoulder surgery. Only a qualified orthopedic surgeon can advise you about what treatment options are right for you.
If you are considering a joint reconstruction or replacement, please give Movement Orthopedics a call. Dr. Jeffrey Carroll is a highly specialized expert of all joint conditions and injuries. He can evaluate your needs and work to determine which options are most likely to provide you with your best possible outcome. Dr. Carrol is a highly skilled, caring physician you can trust with all of your orthopedic needs. Call today at (586) 436- 3785 or request an appointment online.
