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Joint Replacement

What is joint replacement surgery?

Joint replacement, a surgical procedure to remove and replace an arthritic or damaged joint with an artificial joint (called a prosthesis), may be considered only after other treatment options have failed to provide adequate relief from pain and/or disability.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that over half a million hip and knee replacements were performed in 2003.

When preparing for joint replacement surgery

As with any surgery, there are some pre-operative considerations to keep in mind, including, but not limited to, the following:

• Autologous Blood Donation
  Donating your own blood before surgery ensures a matched source of blood if needed during or after surgery.
  
  
• Exercise
  Our bodies tend to heal and regain function faster when they are in good physical and cardiovascular condition.
  
  
• Medication
  Before the surgery, discuss with your physician the medications you are currently taking. Some may need to be temporarily discontinued until after the surgery. Only this determination can be most appropriately made by your physician or orthopaedist.
  
  
• Discharge Planning
  As with any surgery, be sure to discuss discharge planning with your physician beforehand. Your discharge plan may include instructions on care of the incision, pain medications, activities, special exercises, and other home care instructions.
  
  
• Rehabilitation
  Persons who have received a total joint replacement can still lead functional, active lifestyles. One major component of many rehabilitation programs is exercise - to restore function, mobility, and strength to the affected joint and surrounding muscles. Discuss with your physician what an appropriate post-operative rehabilitation program should include.

Consult your physician for more specific pre-operative planning for your individual condition and type of joint replacement surgery.

Joint Replacement Services are offered at the following locations:

• Inova Alexandria Hospital
• Inova Fair Oaks Hospital
• Inova Fairfax Hospital
• Inova Mount Vernon Hospital
• Inova Joint Replacement Center