Issue link: https://blog.providence.org/i/1256336
59 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUE STIONS (FA Q) ABOUT T OTAL JOINT REPL ACEMENT SURG ERY: We are glad you have chosen Providence Total Joint Replacement Program to care for your joint. Patients have asked many questions about total joint replacement. If there are any other questions that you need answered, please ask your surgeon. We want you to be completely informed about this procedure. QUEST IONS RE GA RDING YOUR J OINT R EPL ACEMENT WHAT IS OSTEOART HRIT IS AND WHY DOES MY J OINT HURT? Joint cartilage is a tough, smooth tissue that covers the ends of bones where joints are located. It helps cushion the bones during movement, and because it is smooth and slippery, it allows for motion with minimal friction. Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, is a wear and tear condition that destroys bone ends. This can occur quickly over months or may take years to occur. Cartilage destruction can result in painful bone-on-bone contact, along with swelling and loss of motion. Osteoarthritis usually occurs late in life and may affect one joint or many joints. WHAT IS T OTAL J OINT REPLACEMENT ? A total joint replacement is a bone and cartilage replacement with an artificial surface. This creates a new, smooth cushion and a functioning joint that can reduce or eliminate pain. WHAT ARE T HE RE SUL TS OF THE T OTAL JOINT REPL ACEMENT? Results will vary depending on the quality of the surrounding tissue, the severity of the arthritis at the time of surgery, the patient's activity level and the patient's adherence to the surgeon's orders. Optimal results are achieved by following the instructions of the total joint replacement team. WHEN SHOULD I HAV E T HIS TYPE OF SURG ERY? Your orthopedic surgeon will help you decide if and when you are a candidate for the surgery. The decision will be based on your history, exam, x-rays and response to conservative treatment. AM I TOO OLD FOR T HI S S URGERY ? Age is generally not an issue if you are in reasonable health and have the desire to continue living a productive, active life. You may be asked to see your personal physician for his/her opinion about your general health and readiness for surgery.