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When to Consider Joint Replacement

Michael J. Anderson, M.D., Orthopaedic Surgeon and Chairman - Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Columbia St. Mary's

Posted: Jan. 1, 2008

Q: Are there new techniques I should consider?

A: If you’re living with chronic joint pain, you already know that the pain can force you to give up the things you enjoy most – golfing, playing with kids or even just walking. When the pain becomes debilitating, it may be time to consider joint replacement.

Columbia St. Mary’s has a longstanding tradition of developing new treatments and procedures for knee, hip, shoulder and ankle replacements. Current trends include:

• Hip resurfacing as an alternative to traditional total hip replacement that spares more of the femur bone for improved range of motion and less risk of dislocation. It’s ideal for energetic baby boomers under 60 who plan to lead active lifestyles.
• Knee implants designed for women and men of smaller stature that provide better contouring for a more precise fit and ultimately increased function.
• Smaller incision, minimally invasive surgery techniques for hip and knee replacement.
• Computer assisted technology for joint replacement provides a more precise reconstruction to more accurately place the new joint.
• Joint Camp is an innovative educational program for patients before and after surgery. The program provides information about the surgery, the hospital stay and recovery. Patients meet each other before surgery and work together during post-surgical therapy to provide encouragement. Joint Camp has been shown to help patients recover quicker and to stay positive throughout the joint replacement experience.

As the first hospital in Wisconsin to perform a total hip replacement and the first in Milwaukee to perform hip resurfacing, we remain dedicated to providing the very best and up-to-date care for our patients … allowing them to return to healthy and active lives.

Sign up for a knee and hip pain seminar by visiting Medical Moment.org.

To order a free DVD about Columbia St. Mary’s Joint Replacement Program, please call 414-326-1745.

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