Endoprosthetic joint replacement becomes necessary when conservative treatments for articular cartilage damage and trauma prove inadequate. Joint replacement is recommended for joint diseases where the joint tissue is deteriorating. Additionally, it may be required for older individuals with femoral neck fractures or irreparable fractures around the shoulder or caput radii. The surgical procedure for endoprosthetic joint replacement can be performed on various joints including the shoulder, hip, knee, ankle, and great toe.
The design of the endoprosthesis closely mimics the natural shape of articular surfaces and can be made from polymers, ceramic, or metal materials. There are two fixation techniques available:
- Cemented implants: These implants are secured in place using bone cement.
- Cement-less implants: These implants are coated with hydroxyapatite crystals, which promote the growth of new bone into the implant’s surface. This type of implant technology is particularly suitable for physically active individuals as it ensures a longer lifespan for the artificial joint.
The Procedure of Endoprosthetic Joint Replacement Surgery:
- Anesthesia, either local, general, or spinal, will be administered to you.
- The surgery is performed as an open procedure, and the duration varies depending on the specific joint being replaced.
- Your surgeon will carefully remove the damaged articular cartilage and a portion of the underlying bone structure.
- The damaged cartilage and bone will be replaced with the components of your endoprosthesis.
After the Surgery:
- The wound should be re-dressed once or twice a week.
- After a period of 10-14 days, the sutures will be removed.
- It is typically possible to resume regular activities within three to four months.
- Your surgeon will provide you with specific postoperative care instructions tailored to the joint that was replaced during the surgery.
Rehabilitation
Our affiliated clinics provide a comprehensive range of medical services all under one roof! With both surgical and rehabilitation treatments available in the same clinic, we aim to offer convenience and continuity of care. Rehabilitation plays a crucial role in the recovery process following a hip replacement and should be given significant attention. It not only accelerates the healing process but can also significantly impact the overall success of the surgery, with potential improvements of up to 50%. Our dedicated team is fully prepared to support you in achieving pain-free mobility and helping you regain optimal function:
- More than 40 years of experience as a medical services provider;
- Comprehensive treatment at one of Lithuania’s leading private medical clinics;
- Individual post-op physiotherapy sessions and guidance from a dedicated physiotherapist on how to proceed so as not to injure yourself once you’re back to your daily activities;
- Individual rehabilitation plans tailored to each patient, depending on their well-being and comfort, which may include: cold and compression therapy, physiotherapy treatments (to reduce inflammation and strengthen muscles), physiotherapy sessions (to increase range of motion and restore joint function and mobility), therapeutic massage, etc. The aim of post-operative early rehabilitation is to train the patient to move with assistive devices, speed up the healing process and help restore joint function;
- Aquatic physiotherapy 2 weeks after surgery, when the joint has fully healed;
- Guidance on the use of aids for household/daily activities, available from our local shop;
- Option of consultation with the operating surgeon during the rehabilitation period;
- Caring staff members and friendly communication;
- Cozy and modern private wards with all amenities (TV, WI-FI, private bathroom, basic hygiene products);
- Delicious food with menu choices;
- All-inclusive rehabilitation packages, that can be reimbursed by your local health board (as well as the surgery itself).
Amber Surgery LTD
Unit 12, Burnell Square, Mayne River St, Malahide Rd, Northern Cross, Dublin 17, D17YW40, Ireland