How Long Does a Joint Replacement Last?

If you are one of the millions of Americans who have arthritis or another condition that requires a joint replacement, you may be wondering how long your new joint will last.

Replace the already present link with the below link Joint replacement by an orthopedic specialist in Baltimore will involve the surgical replacement of your damaged joint with an artificial one. Generally, the goal is to provide a durable and long-lasting solution.

We will discuss some of the most important things to keep in mind regarding joint replacement longevity.

Factors That Affect How Long a Joint Replacement Lasts

Joint replacement is generally thought to offer long-term pain relief, but how long the joint replacement lasts depends on various factors. These include:

1) The Patient’s Age and General Health

Joint replacement surgery involves complex surgery and recovery, so younger patients are typically better candidates for the procedure than older patients. Additionally, general health factors such as smoking, obesity, and underlying conditions can impact the longevity of a joint replacement.

2) The Type of Implant Used

Here are some types of implants that are used for joint replacement surgery:

– Metal and plastic: This is the most common type of implant, consisting of a metal stem with a plastic cup.

– Ceramic: Ceramic implants are designed to be incredibly long-lasting.

– Polyethylene: This implant uses highly specialized plastics to improve durability.

3) The Type of Joint Replaced

Certain joints, such as the hip and shoulder, tend to have longer-lasting replacements than others. This is because these joints are more stable and bear less weight than other joints like the knee.

Other factors, such as the patient’s activity level and how well they follow their post-operative instructions, can also affect the longevity of a joint replacement. For best results, it’s essential to discuss with your doctor what type of implant is right for you and develop a recovery plan according to your particular needs.

4) The Patient’s Activity Level After Surgery

Patients who have had a joint replacement should also be aware that their activity level following the procedure may affect how long the joint replacement will last. Patients who are highly active in sports or other physical activities after surgery are more likely to experience wear and tear on their artificial joints, which may cause them to degrade more quickly than if they had remained inactive. Therefore, individuals need to work with their doctor to establish an activity level that is safe and recommended after the procedure. With proper care, a joint replacement can last for many years, providing immense relief from pain and restoring mobility in the affected area.

5) Regular Follow-Up Visits With Your Doctor

Finally, it is essential for patients who have had joint replacement surgery to keep up with regular follow-up visits with their doctor. These checkups allow your doctor to monitor the progress of the artificial joint, spot any potential problems early, and make adjustments as needed to help extend the life of the joint replacement. Additionally, such visits are beneficial for keeping an ongoing dialogue between you and your doctor, so make these follow-up visits a priority.

Call Ascension Saint Agnes for the best joint replacement in Baltimore. We are committed to providing you with the highest quality care and the best results possible. Contact us today for more information about joint replacement surgery.