Our joints are in constant movement. When a joint starts to wear out, the cartilage (or cushioning) around the joint breaks down, causing bones to rub together. Advanced and end-stage joint disease can be caused by:

• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Other inflammatory joint problems
• Previous joint injuries
• Joint infections
• Other rare conditions that cause chronic joint pain

A total joint replacement (also known as arthroplasty) is a surgical procedure performed by an orthopedic surgeon. During the procedure, the arthritic or damaged areas of the joint are removed and replaced with a metal or plastic device. This device is designed to replicate the movement of a normal, healthy joint. Hip and knee replacements are the most common joint replacements, but replacement surgery can be performed on other joints, such as the ankle, wrist, shoulder and elbow.

The first step for a joint replacement procedure is to meet with an orthopedic doctor. They can use diagnostic imaging and a physical examination to diagnose and determine if a joint replacement is right for you.

Depending on your results, an orthopedic specialist may recommend joint replacement surgery if:

• You suffer from limited mobility, swelling or stiffness that severely limits your daily activities and quality of life.
• You’ve already tried other non-surgical joint pain treatments, such as exercise modifications, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, injections and braces.
• You continue to experience a decline in function and disabling pain.

Our surgeons use many of the latest treatments and newest technologies to perform less-invasive procedures.

In Albuquerque, we offer Mako Robotic-Assisted Surgery. Mako SmartRobotics™ is an innovative solution for many suffering from painful arthritis of the knee or hip. Mako uses 3D CT-based planning software so your surgeon can know more about your specific anatomy to create a personalized joint replacement surgical plan. This 3D model is used to pre-plan and assist your surgeon in performing your joint replacement. Mako’s technology allows for a more predictable surgical outcome, quicker recovery and less pain.

Learn more about Mako SmartRobotics™.

In Albuquerque, our surgeons perform advanced hip replacement surgeries using minimally invasive techniques. These approaches, including the anterior and direct superior approach, involve smaller incisions on the front or upper side of the hip, which generally results in less tissue trauma, reduced pain and faster recovery compared to traditional hip replacement surgeries.

Recovery varies from patient to patient and is dependent on a number of factors including the type of procedure performed and the patient’s age, weight and activity level. Some patients who receive joint replacement are able to return home the same day as surgery while others may require a short overnight stay in the hospital.  It is typically expected that the patient is able to independently get in and out of bed, get dressed and use the toilet at the time of discharge.

Many joint replacement patients are routinely standing and walking within a day or two of surgery with the aid of an assistive device such as a cane, walker or crutches. Some patients are even walking the same day as surgery. Most patients are able to resume driving within 2-8 weeks once they have discontinued use of opioid pain medications and have received approval from their doctor. The timeline for a patient to return to work will vary. Someone with a sedentary job may be able to return to work within a few weeks, while someone with a more physically demanding job will require a longer recovery before returning to work.  

Every person’s anatomy and situation are unique, so it’s important to discuss your specific recovery timeline with your orthopedic surgeon.

To determine if joint replacement is right for you, make an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists at 505-727-4430 in Albuquerque or 575-625-3300 in Roswell.

During your appointment, we will perform a full evaluation to determine the best treatment option for you. You do not need a referral to be seen by one of our orthopedic doctors, although some insurance companies and plans do require you to be referred by a primary care physician to receive health services. To ensure no referral is needed, please call your insurance company.