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Orthopedic surgeon Stephen Benz, MD, says patients now have better recoveries due to today's minimally invasive techniques.
Age is not a Factor
New Materials Extend the Life of Joint Replacement
With better materials, surgeons can replace ankles, knees, hips, elbows, shoulders and fingers.
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Here are two astounding statistics from The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery: From 1971-2003, there was a 400 percent increase in the number of total knee replacements performed in the U.S. During the more recent years, the largest percentage increase occurred in patients who were less than 50 years old.
“We’ve had great success with total joint replacements over the years, with 20-year implant survival rates now consistently above 90 percent,” says south St. Louis County orthopedic surgeon Stephen Benz, MD. “For a human-made device, that’s remarkable to have such a long-term survival outlook.”
Better metal-to-metal and ceramic materials, as well as minimally invasive surgical techniques, are driving forces in improving surgery success rates and longevity of implanted devices. Smaller surgical instruments also enable physicians to make precise incisions and movements to ensure that implants are balanced and fit well with each individual.
“A major change with minimally invasive knee and partial knee replacements is that we do surgery from the front of the knee with a smaller incision and we are able to spare the quadriceps tendons,” says Dr Benz. “Years ago, the tendons surrounding the knee were cut as part of the surgery. Today, with minimally invasive procedures, patients have a much faster and more successful recovery.”
Dr. Benz says patients should carefully consider physician expertise in deciding where to go for a total joint replacement evaluation. Trendy ads for gender-specific knees or specific devices may sway patients, but the final decision should be made after a comprehensive exam, imaging tests and a discussion of lifestyle goals.
“Patients consider joint replacement because they are in tremendous pain,” adds Dr. Benz. “Age is not a factor anymore. For the overwhelming majority of patients, a total joint replacement can enable them to enjoy daily activities again.”
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