Joint Replacement Surgery in Rochester, NY
The surgeons at Rochester Community Orthopaedics are members of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgery with interest in evaluating and treating arthritic joints. The evaluation consists of a thorough history of the patient, a physical exam, and, if necessary, imaging studies including X-rays which can be done right in our office. Treatment options range from medications and physical therapy to injections and surgery.
For patients with end-stage arthritis, our surgeons are familiar with joint replacement surgery options including the latest advances to help restore and improve function for patients with a severely degraded range of motion, mobility, and pain. Through the intervention of our surgeons, pain-free everyday activities like walking, tennis, gardening, golf, and playing with children can be restored to patients who have had to limit or cease these activities as a result of the chronic and debilitating effects of their arthritis.
Rochester Community Orthopaedic surgeons work with the Rochester General Hospital joint replacement team to consider the patient’s ability to tolerate the rigors of joint replacement. A total joint replacement class is available at Rochester General which is very informative in educating patients either scheduled for or considering hip or knee replacement surgery. For patients moving forward with surgery, the total joint replacement class presentation is now available online on the Rochester Regional Health website.
If you’re seeking joint replacement surgery in the Rochester area, contact Rochester Community Orthopaedics today to schedule an appointment. Give us a call at (585) 218-4337 or request an appointment through our secure online form.
Arthritis & Joint Replacement
Many patients who consider joint replacement surgery have various forms of arthritis, which can cause debilitating pain and severely limit the range of motion in the affected area. The three main types of arthritis include:
| Osteoarthritis Osteoarthritis occurs as people age. The cartilage between bones begins to soften and wear away. As this tissue deteriorates, the bones begin to rub together causing pain and stiffness. | Rheumatoid Arthritis In patients with rheumatoid arthritis, the body’s immune system attacks the membrane surrounding the joint, causing it to become inflamed and eventually wear away. | Post-Traumatic Arthritis After a serious injury such as a fractured bone or a torn ligament, severe and immediate damage to cartilage can occur. This cartilage loss can result in pain and stiffness. |
Orthopaedic Evaluation
To determine whether or not a patient is a good candidate for joint replacement surgery, an orthopaedic surgeon will evaluate the affected area. During this evaluation, the doctor will:
- Discuss your medical history. The doctor will discuss your general health, the symptoms that you have been experiencing, and when the symptoms began.
- Perform a physical exam. The doctor will test the range of motion, stability, and strength of the affected area.
- Perform an X-ray and/or MRI. An x-ray will provide an image that can show the extent of the damage to the cartilage and bone and help the surgeon identify any abnormalities.
What Are Some Forms of Joint Replacement?
Arthritis, age, and traumatic injury can affect the entire body. The most common forms of joint replacement surgery we typically perform are of the hips and knees.
Hip Replacement
The hip is constructed with six bones that work in tandem. The ball-and-socket joint allows an extensive range of motion that allows for comfortable sitting, standing, walking, and bending. A hip replacement surgery replaces damaged tendons with artificial parts that help relieve pain and improve function.
Knee Replacement
The knee is one of the most highly-impacted joints in the body because it bears almost all of a person’s weight. A functioning knee consists of a thighbone, shinbone, and kneecaps. Tendon ligaments and cartilage connect each of these bones to achieve forward and backward motion. A knee joint replacement surgery replaces damaged tissue with an artificial joint, helping to improve mobility and painful symptoms.
Meet Our Orthopedic Doctors
Total Joint Replacement Class
For patients moving forward with surgery, The total joint replacement class presentation is now available online on the Rochester Regional Health website:
The class can also be accessed on YouTube by searching for RGH Total Joint Replacements