Thanks to the recent technological advancements in the field of orthopedic surgery, numerous patients have benefited from modern techniques, equipment, type of implants, etc.
However, orthopedic surgeons hear many misconceptions about knee joint replacement procedures from their patients. Awareness is essential for prevention, early detection, and targeted therapy and we think it is the key to ensuring effective outcomes.
Here are 7 common myths that you might believe:
The Success Rate of The Surgery Is Very Low
Knee replacement surgery is very effective and most of the people who undergo this surgery are able to perform their daily activities comfortably and without pain. Numerous types of research show that knee replacement surgeries have a greater than 90 to 95 percent success rate in most patients.
The Replacement Does Not Last for More Than 10 Years
Modern knee implants are very durable so wearing out of an implant is very rare. According to AAOS, 90% of the knee replacements are still functioning after 15 years and 82% of the total knee replacements are still functioning after 25 years. For the majority of patients, a successful knee replacement typically improves their quality of life, reduces pain, and improves their mobility.
I Am Too Young/Old for Knee Replacement
There are no age requirements for joint replacement surgery as each patient’s case differs. With advanced implant systems and most implants lasting longer, younger people can also benefit from replacement surgery, if the need arises. As for older people, if you are in good health and can withstand a replacement surgery, then you can have them as well.
Recovery Takes a Very Long
There is a common misunderstanding among many people that replacement surgeries take many months or a few years to recover from, which is not true in most cases. It completely depends on the quality of the surgery and postoperative care taken by the patient after the surgery. By diligently following the surgeon’s instructions and doing exercises regularly, most people get back to their active life within a few weeks after the surgery.
I Won’t Be Able to Be Active Anymore
Actually, it’s quite the opposite! The goal is to get you back to your favorite activities pain-free. After about 4 to 6 weeks of recovery time, most patients are able to get back to their low-impact daily activities such as shopping and house cleaning. Most patients start driving within 6 to 8 weeks from the time of the surgery.
Joint Replacement Surgery Is Very Expensive
The orthopedic field has come a long way with the latest and best technologies and equipment, which has significantly cut down the cost of joint replacements in recent years. Medicare and other insurance plans often cover knee replacement surgery in particular, so patients won’t have to spend out-of-pocket expenses like co-payments or deductibles. Moreover, with a few limitations, Medicare pays 100% for hip and joint replacements after the age of 65.
Joint Replacement Should Be Your Last Resort
It’s true that people who are experiencing joint pain should not immediately assume they need surgery. First, talk to your physician and they may prescribe you medications or administer intraarticular steroid injections, and viscosupplementations depending upon the severity and nature of arthritis, which may eventually help you with pain relief. However, joint replacement surgery is far from a last-resort treatment, because your physician will only recommend replacement surgery if there is no better way to manage your pain and disability.
Takeaway
Since each and every case is different, it is important that you consult with your orthopedic surgeon about your current condition to know whether you are a good candidate for knee joint replacement.
Carolina Regional Orthopaedics
Carolina Regional Orthopaedics provides the most effective, modern, and innovative techniques in both Orthopedic Surgery and Pain Management using proven methodologies in both the surgical and non-surgical treatment of all conditions affecting the spine, upper extremities, and lower extremities. We specialize in hand and wrist surgery, joint replacements, sports medicine, trauma care, pediatric orthopedics, pain management, wound care, regenerative medicine, physical therapy, imaging services, and EMG testing.