Knee and Hip Replacement
> What are knee and hip replacement?
> Who should have a knee or hip replacement?
> What is the success rate?
> Is there an alternative to replacement?
> How long is the hospital stay?
> How long is recovery?
> Are there complications?
> What about pain?
> What is the cost?
> Where will my surgery be performed?
> What about physical rehabilitation?
What are knee and hip replacement? 
Knee replacement and hip replacement are surgical procedures in which the damaged ends of bone are covered with metal and plastic. The surgery replaces cartilage that has worn away over the years. Joint replacement can eliminate pain and allow you to move easily. For many people who have knee arthritis, it also straightens the leg. In some cases, fixing just one knee or hip can save the other for two or three years, if the arthritis is not too advanced. Every person is different, and your surgeon will evaluate what is best for you.
Who should have a knee or hip replacement?
When arthritis knee or hip pain severely limits your ability to walk, work or perform even simple activities, knee or hip replacement should be considered.
What is the success rate?
Both knee and hip replacement are recognized as miracles of modern surgery. Most orthopedic experts consider replacement to be the best method of handling advanced arthritis in the knee or hip. Joint replacement has literally put hundreds of thousands of disabled Americans back on their feet and allowed them to enjoy an active lifestyle.
Is there an alternative to replacement?
It depends on how advanced your joint problem is. Physical therapy, special injections or anti-inflammatory drugs may be recommended in the early stages of joint disease, but they will not give you the same long-term relief as a joint replacement. Arthroscopic or microscopic surgery is not helpful once arthritis is advanced. Knee or hip replacement is only recommended after careful diagnosis of your problem.
How long is the hospital stay?
The average hospital stay for a knee or hip replacement is two to three days. Most patients leave the hospital in two days and go home. But if you have special needs or live alone, a short stay at a skilled nursing facility can be arranged by our social work team.
Your discharge needs will be assessed by your therapist, social worker and physician and discussed with you before and during your hospital stay. Keep in mind that healing and recovery times vary with each person.
How long is recovery?
Recovery varies with each person. You will use walker or crutches for four weeks after the operation. Many people can drive a car in six weeks. Most people gradually increase their activities and can slow dance, play golf, doubles tennis, shuffleboard, or bowl in 12 weeks.
Are there complications?
As with any surgery, there is a risk of complications, but complications after knee or hip replacement are uncommon. Ask your surgeon about potential complications.
What about pain?
Pain management is an important part of recovery. Your doctor will prescribe medication to help control your discomfort after surgery. In addition, your nurses will work closely with you to monitor your pain and make sure that it is kept under control.
What is the cost?
Your direct cost will depend on your insurance coverage. Remember, to get the full benefit of your insurance, both your physician and the hospital should be covered on your plan. The Jewish Hospital accepts Medicare, and most other insurance carriers.
Where will my surgery be performed?
The Jewish Hospital Joint Replacement Center is located within the hospital at 4777 East Galbraith Road. With easy access from I-71 and I-75, convenient parking and a wide variety of shops and restaurants nearby, we make it easy for friends and family to visit.
What about physical rehabilitation?
Jewish Hospital’s rehabilitation services team provides every patient with comprehensive physical and occupational therapy. You will meet with a physical therapist before your surgery, in pre-admission testing. The therapist will discuss your rehabilitation after surgery, and will assess your needs for any special equipment you may need during your recovery, such as a walker or crutches.
Therapy begins shortly after surgery, when your therapists visit you in your room to evaluate your progress and help you re-gain your mobility. Therapists will work with you to help you master everything from walking to bathing to dressing.
After you go home, you may continue your therapy in our outpatient rehabilitation services department for several weeks, or your surgeon may prescribe a therapy program for you to do at home. Our therapists work with more than 800 joint replacement patients every year, so you can feel comforted by their expertise and experience.
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