Joint Replacement Surgery
Joint replacement surgery involves removing damaged or diseased parts of a joint and replacing them with artificial implants. This is most commonly performed for knees, hips, and ankles. Conditions such as osteoarthritis, severe injury, or degenerative joint disease are the main reasons for undergoing joint replacement surgery.
Hip Replacement Surgery
Hip replacement surgery is commonly used to treat severe arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, and fractures in the hip joint. During this procedure, the damaged bone and cartilage in the hip joint are removed and replaced with a prosthetic implant. This surgery can significantly reduce pain and improve mobility for patients who have difficulty walking, sitting, or performing everyday activities due to hip joint deterioration. Modern techniques allow for minimally invasive approaches, which can reduce recovery time and lead to quicker rehabilitation.
Ankle Replacement Surgery
Ankle replacement is less common than hip or knee replacements but is gaining popularity as implant technology improves. It is used to treat end-stage arthritis in the ankle joint, which can result from rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or severe trauma. The procedure involves replacing the damaged ankle joint with prosthetic components to restore movement and relieve pain. Unlike ankle fusion, which limits movement, ankle replacement preserves joint motion, making it an appealing option for patients looking to maintain their active lifestyles.
Knee Replacement Surgery
Knee replacement surgery is most often performed for patients with severe osteoarthritis that causes chronic pain, stiffness, and limited function. In a knee replacement, the damaged surfaces of the knee joint are replaced with artificial components made of metal and plastic. This surgery helps restore mobility, reduce pain, and improve the overall quality of life for patients who suffer from debilitating knee conditions. Total knee replacements are common, but partial knee replacements are also performed for cases where only one part of the knee is affected.
Shoulder Replacement Surgery
Shoulder replacement surgery is an important medical procedure for patients who suffer from severe shoulder pain and significantly reduces movement caused by various conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or shoulder fractures. This complex surgical intervention involves the careful removal of damaged bone and cartilage within the shoulder joint, followed by the placement of artificial components, which are typically crafted from durable materials such as metal and plastic. This procedure can greatly enhance the quality of life for individuals who have been struggling with debilitating shoulder issues.
Wait Times
In British Columbia, hip and knee replacement surgeries typically have wait times of 18 months to 2 years, with some patients waiting even longer due to high demand.
Seattle is an ideal destination for joint replacement surgeries, providing quicker access to care for those facing long wait times in Canada. The city’s orthopedic centers are known for offering the latest in joint replacement technology, including custom implants and minimally invasive techniques that reduce recovery times and improve outcomes. Patients from British Columbia benefit not only from the expertise of leading surgeons but also from state-of-the-art facilities dedicated to enhancing patient comfort and care.
