Your joints are the areas where bone meets bone. Over time, the cushiony parts that keep the bones from rubbing together may wear away due to arthritis, injury or simply living life. This friction can cause pain, swelling and difficulty with movement.
Joint replacement may be an option when other methods of pain relief and mobility, such as medication and physical therapy, are unsuccessful.
Types of joint replacement surgeries
Any joints in the body may be replaced but most commonly are the hip and knee. Joint replacement is a surgery that involves resurfacing or smoothing of the joints and cutting away of cartilage so that a prosthetic joint made of plastic, metal or a combination of both can be implanted and rejoined to existing bone and cartilage. As the area heals, new bone, cartilage and blood vessels form to increase blood flow to the area, relieve pain and enhance mobility.
Most joint replacements last 10 to 15 years depending on the type of material used and the activity level and individual needs of the patient.
Joint Replacement Program
If you're experiencing lack of movement or flexibility, or pain associated with the joints, you may wish to consult with a specialist at Main Line Health where we have vast experience with surgical and nonsurgical approaches to relieving joint pain problems.
Orthopaedics at Main Line Health offers the most advanced techniques available for joint replacement, including minimally invasive procedures when possible.
Learn more about our Joint Replacement Program
Preparing for joint replacement surgery
We want you to have everything you need to be as comfortable as possible on your day of surgery. It’s also important to plan and prepare in the days leading up to surgery and to know what to expect when you get home. These resources will help you mentally and physically prepare for surgery, know what to expect at the hospital and during your stay, plan for at-home assistance and rehabilitation and more.
VIEW OUR GUIDE TO JOINT REPLACEMENT SURGERY AT MAIN LINE HEALTH
U.S. News & World Report has rated Lankenau Medical Center, Bryn Mawr Hospital and Riddle Hospital, all parts of Main Line Health, as High Performing for hip replacement and knee replacement for 2022-2023.
U.S. News & World Report has rated Paoli Hospital, part of Main Line Health, as High Performing for knee replacement for 2022-2023.
