Hip and Knee Replacement (Endoprosthetics)

Arthroplasty is a surgery to replace a damaged joint, often applied to hip and knee joints. This practice is also known as Hip or Knee Replacement Surgery. Joints may be damaged due to Osteoarthritis, chronic joint inflammation, fractures, dysplasia, bone cancers, and various other reasons. The risk of joint damage increases with aging. The rising prevalence of obesity in recent years has drawn attention as a predisposing factor for joint damage.

Knee Replacement Surgery

Knee Replacement Surgery (Knee Prosthesis) is performed to restore a damaged joint due to severe arthritis. People in need of Knee Replacement Surgery experience significant pain while walking, climbing stairs, and sitting for extended periods. Some patients even experience severe pain at rest. The goal of Knee Joint Surgery is to alleviate pain and restore joint function.

Implants are typically placed in the following parts of the knee joint:

• Lower end of the femur (Thigh bone)
• Upper end of the tibia (Shinbone)
• Back part of the knee

Today, in addition to plastic and metal prostheses, prostheses with ceramic coatings are also used.

The surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Crutches or a walker may be required for several weeks after the procedure. Knee replacement surgery allows for pain relief, increased mobility, and improved quality of life.

Hip Replacement

As we age, hip joint damage is often observed. This damage can be due to several reasons, including calcification, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteonecrosis. As a result, there is severe pain and restricted mobility. During hip joint replacement surgery, the damaged surface of the hip joint is removed and replaced with a prosthesis made of metal, ceramic, and/or hard plastic. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Crutches or a walker may be necessary for several weeks after the procedure.

Determining the Need for Hip or Knee Joint Replacement Surgery

If you have been experiencing persistent pain in your knee or hip area and have tried the following treatment methods:

• Using anti-inflammatory medications for a long time without relief of pain,
• Taking glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate supplements without noticing any benefit,
• Avoiding activities that cause pain,
• Needing to use a cane or walker,
• Not experiencing improvement from physical therapy,
• Having cortisone injections in your knee without relief,
• Being advised by your doctor to lose weight but still experiencing mobility difficulties,

In such cases, it is advisable to consult an Orthopedist for a thorough evaluation of your condition.

In recent years, with advancements in medical technology, surgical procedures for hip and knee joint replacement have a high success rate. Remember that with hip or knee joint replacement, pain will decrease or disappear, you will be able to move and exercise more freely, and your walking will improve.

To maintain your quality of life, pay attention to the health of your joints!