Joint replacement surgery in Burr Ridge

Also serving Plainfield, Morris and surrounding areas

Is one of the most common and successful operations in modern orthopaedic surgery. It consists of replacing painful, arthritic, worn or diseased parts of the joint with artificial surfaces shaped in such a way as to allow joint movement.

Prognosis is good to excellent in 95% of major joint replacements (hips, knees, and shoulders). Pain relief is especially reliable. Full recovery of range of motion is not always accomplished but you will be able to play golf, walk, dance and engage in light to moderate physical activities. Expect your total joint replacement to last a decade or more.

The future is bright for those who choose to have a total joint replacement to achieve an improved quality of life through greater independence and healthier pain-free activity.

Common Symptoms:

• Severe Pain & Muscle Weakening
• Pain Medications No Longer Work
• Restricted Joint Movement & Joint Stiffness
• Meniscus tear

Common Joint Replacements:

• Knee
• Hip
• Shoulder

Partial Knee Replacement

Dr. Burt performs Partial Knee Replacement with the Oxford (trademark) Knee. This is a less invasive option for appropriately selected patients with arthritis of the knee limited to one compartment.

Candidates for Joint Replacement Surgery

People with chronic joint pain may be good candidates for joint replacement surgery. If a person experiences pain/discomfort that interferes with their ability to do daily tasks and activities, such as walking, exercise, recreational hobbies and work, they may be a surgical candidate. Many patients that are seeking joint replacement surgery with Dr. Burt range between the ages of 60 and 80. Younger individuals may fall into an appropriate population of patients requiring joint replacement because of joint pain secondary to disease or injury. If you experience joint pain when you sit, walk, golf, stand, garden, sleep, go up the stairs or pick up a child, you may want to schedule a consultation with Dr. Burt. Joint replacement surgery often fosters a better quality of life and will help restore the range of motion necessary for daily activities.

Patients are evaluated as appropriate for joint replacement based on a couple of parameters, including impaired function with daily activities, level of pain and loss of mobility. Patients must be in good overall health to undergo this type of surgery. You may be asked to quit smoking or lose excess weight in preparation for this surgical procedure.

Following the recommendations of the physician is crucial to ensure best outcomes following surgery, and Dr. Burt has protocols in place to ensure patients experience the best outcomes with joint replacement. It’s also important to consider your ability to take time away from work or other responsibilities while recovering. Sound support in the home is best during the recovery period to ensure appropriate assistance with navigating the home, meals, etc.

If you are experiencing joint pain and limited range of motion that are affecting your work or overall quality of life, discuss your options with Dr. Burt. If deemed a good candidate, it’s best to avoid delaying surgery as it creates a greater risk of degenerative issues over time. Pushing out surgery may also lead to less successful outcomes due to continued wear and tear of the joint and deteriorating levels of function.

Preparing for Joint Replacement Surgery

Joint replacement surgery can restore your quality of life. However, patients must prepare for the invasive procedure by planning ahead and preparing themselves and their loved ones for surgery and recovery. Whether you’re having knee, hip or shoulder joint replacement surgery, make sure you understand the necessary protocols and stages of recovery. This includes hospital admission vs. surgery center, anesthesia, type of joint implant and a potential short hospital stay or time spent in a rehab facility to ensure appropriate use of physical therapy and occupational therapy for safe return to the home. Scheduling surgery will likely require a slew of pre-operative tests to clear you for surgery. These tests may include a chest X-ray or EKG.

It’s imperative to eat well, hydrate and stay away from alcohol for at least 48 hours before your joint replacement surgery. Talk to Dr. Burt about exercise and quitting smoking before the procedure. Smoking inhibits the natural healing process and may complicate recovery. It may be ideal to prepare your home with pre-made meals and an area where you can relax and recover. Remove fall hazards, such as rugs and cords on the ground that increase risk of falling while using crutches or a walker.

On the day of your joint replacement surgery, make sure to bring your insurance card and a trusted friend or family member to drive you to and from the hospital. You will need help remembering healthcare instructions and settling in at home. Have a list of your current doctors’ names and contact information, and be prepared to discuss your allergies, previous surgeries, medical conditions, medications and supplements. Share any dietary restrictions or food allergies you have for your hospital stay and provide existing advanced directives, such as a durable power of attorney or living will.

Our office can help you prepare for joint replacement with pre-op and post-op instructions provided by Dr. Burt and his team.

Benefits of Joint Replacement Surgery

The goal of joint replacement surgery is to relieve joint pain and restore your range of motion and quality of life. Benefits of the procedure include:

• Reliable pain relief
• Improved mobility
• Increased range of motion in the affected joint
• Daily tasks, exercise and other activities are easier with little to no pain
• A brief hospital stay or rehab stay
• High surgical success rate (around 95%)
• A fuller, more active lifestyle

Joint replacement surgery significantly reduces joint pain, and most patients enjoy their new joint for many years to come.

Joint Replacement FAQs

Can I Be Too Young or Old for Joint Replacement Surgery?

While age is a factor in joint replacement surgery, it is not the only consideration. Dr. Burt evaluates patients based on the severity of their joint condition and their overall health rather than just age.

• Young patients: While younger individuals may benefit from joint replacement due to injury or early-onset arthritis, younger age groups may need revision surgeries later in life due to wear and tear on the implant.
• Older adults: Advancements in surgical techniques and implant materials have made joint replacement a viable option for older patients, provided they are in good overall health. Age is not necessarily a limiting factor as long as the patient can safely undergo surgery and rehabilitation.

Ultimately, joint replacement decisions are made on a case-by-case basis, focusing on quality of life and the ability to function.

When Is Joint Replacement Surgery Recommended?

Joint replacement surgery is typically recommended when non-surgical treatments no longer provide adequate relief from pain or disability caused by joint damage.

• Chronic pain: When persistent joint pain limits daily activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, or even sitting, and does not improve with rest or medication, surgery may be considered.
• Limited range of motion: If joint stiffness or inflammation prevents you from performing basic movements, joint replacement can restore function.
• Advanced arthritis or joint damage: Surgery is often indicated when imaging scans, such as X-rays or MRIs, show significant joint degeneration or deformity due to osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or traumatic injuries.
• Failure of conservative treatments: If physical therapy, medications, and injections are no longer effective, surgery becomes a more viable option.

What Is Joint Replacement Surgery Recovery Like?

Recovery after joint replacement surgery varies depending on the joint that is replaced, but there are general guidelines to expect during the rehabilitation process.

• Initial recovery: Most patients begin physical therapy within 24-48 hours after surgery. The goal is to restore mobility and strengthen the muscles around the joint to support the prosthesis.
• Assistive devices: For a few weeks following surgery, the patient may need to use crutches, a walker, or a cane to aid mobility and protect the healing joint.
• Physical therapy: Regular sessions with a physical therapist will be crucial for regaining strength, flexibility, and function. These sessions typically continue for two or three months.
• Full recovery: While patients can usually return to normal daily activities within a few weeks, full recovery may take three to six months or more. It is essential for patients to follow Dr. Burt’s and the physical therapist’s recommendations to ensure optimal healing.
• Long-term care: Many patients can return to low-impact activities, such as walking, swimming, and biking, but high-impact sports should be avoided to extend the life of the prosthesis.

What Are Common Injuries to the Joints?

Joint injuries can occur from overuse, trauma, or degenerative conditions. Common joint injuries that may eventually lead to the need for surgery include:

• Osteoarthritis: This is the most common form of arthritis. It involves the breakdown of cartilage, leading to pain and stiffness, especially in weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips.
• Rheumatoid arthritis: This autoimmune disease causes chronic inflammation of the joints, leading to damage of the cartilage and bones.
• Meniscal tears: These are common knee injuries often caused by twisting or over-flexing the joint and may require surgical intervention if conservative treatments fail.
• Ligament injuries: Torn ligaments, such as ACL tears in the knee or rotator cuff injuries in the shoulder, can compromise joint stability and function.
• Fractures: Severe joint fractures, particularly in the hip, shoulder, or ankle, may lead to joint replacement when the joint cannot heal properly with other treatments.

If you’re interested in joint replacement surgery, contact the Midwest Sports Medicine Institute to schedule a consultation with our board-certified orthopaedic surgeon, Dr. David Burt. Fill out our online contact form or call one of our three locations in Burr Ridge, Plainfield and Morris, Illinois, to make an appointment.