Arthritis and other conditions that damage the cartilage of the knee can cause pain and loss of mobility. In a total knee replacement, also called a total knee arthroplasty, orthopedic surgeons replace the damaged cartilage with an artificial joint made of metal and plastic.

This procedure is often recommended for those who have:

• Severe pain that limits daily activities
• Joint pain that interferes with sleep
• Stiffness or decreased range of motion in the knee
• Swelling around the knee
• X-rays that show bone damage or deformity

During a total knee replacement, orthopedic surgeons make an incision over the knee to access the joint. The damaged cartilage and bone are removed and replaced with an artificial joint. The incision is then closed with stitches or staples.

When the cartilage in the hip joint wears away, it can cause pain and decreased mobility. In a total hip replacement, also called a total hip arthroplasty, orthopedic surgeons replace the damaged cartilage with an artificial joint. This is a major surgery, and it is usually only recommended for those who have persistent pain and decreased mobility that has not responded to other conservative treatments.

As with all major surgeries, there are some risks associated with a total hip replacement. These include but are not limited to infection, hip dislocation, and nerve injury. Our team will work with the patient to minimize the risks before surgery. Your orthopedic surgeon will discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure with you before surgery.

Damaged cartilage in the shoulder joint can cause pain and decreased range of motion. In a total shoulder replacement, also called a total shoulder arthroplasty, orthopedic surgeons replace the damaged cartilage with an artificial joint. This surgery is usually only recommended for those who have persistent pain and decreased range of motion that have not responded to other conservative treatments.

There are minimally invasive options available for shoulder replacement surgery. During a minimally invasive procedure, orthopedic surgeons make smaller incisions to access the joint. This can lead to less pain and a quicker recovery. However, not all patients are candidates for a minimally invasive procedure. Your orthopedic surgeon will discuss the best options for you during your consultation.

Elbow joint replacement surgery is a procedure orthopedic surgeons use to treat patients with elbow pain that has not responded to other conservative treatments. In this procedure, orthopedic surgeons replace the damaged cartilage with an artificial joint. Less pain and improved range of motion are the most common benefits patients experience after surgery.

If the cartilage in your wrist joint is damaged, it can cause pain and decreased range of motion. Severe arthritis is the most common reason patients require wrist joint replacement surgery. In this procedure, orthopedic surgeons replace the damaged cartilage with an artificial joint. This can provide relief from pain and improve the range of motion. Typically, a total wrist replacement will last for 10-15 years.

Your orthopedic surgeon will discuss the risks and benefits of any procedure with you before surgery. At Maimonides, we are committed to providing you with the best possible orthopedic care.