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HOW L ONG W ILL MY NEW JOINT LAST ?
All implants have a limited life expectancy depending on an individual's age, weight, activity
level and medical condition(s). A total joint implant's longevity will vary in every patient. It is
important to remember that an implant is a medical device subject to wear that may lead to
mechanical failure. While it is important to follow all your surgeon's recommendations after
surgery, there is no guarantee that your particular implant will last for any specific length of
time.
WHAT ARE T HE POS SIBL E COMPLICATIONS ASSO CIATED W ITH J OINT RE PLA CEMENT?
While uncommon, complications can occur during and after surgery. Some complications
include pain, infection, blood clots, implant breakage, mal-alignment (not lined up perfectly)
and premature wear, any of which may necessitate implant removal/replacement surgery.
While these devices are generally successful in attaining reduced pain and restored function,
they cannot be expected to withstand activity levels and loads of normal healthy bone and joint
tissue. Although implant surgery is extremely successful in most cases, some patients still
experience pain and stiffness. Be sure to discuss these and other risks with your surgeon.
QUEST IONS REGA RDING RISK F ACT ORS T HAT MA Y DELAY SURGE RY OR R ECOVE RY
WHAT ARE T HE KEY RIS K FACT ORS T HAT MA Y D ELAY SURG ERY OR RECO VERY ?
Obesity
Poorly controlled diabetes
Smoking/ Nicotine use
Poor general health
Please note: If you have health concerns please discuss the specific questions with your
surgeon.
SHOULD I EXE RCISE BE FORE T HE SURGE RY?
Yes, exercising before surgery benefits you after surgery. The exercises shown in the appendix
are specifically designed to strengthen the hip and knee joints. If you are limping or favoring
your leg now, you will benefit from these exercises.
WHAT CAN I DO TO P RE VENT INFECT ION ?
Wash your hands regularly.
Take excellent care of your skin. If you get deep scratches, cuts or rashes, contact your
surgeon's office.
