Definition

Partial joint replacement is the use of an implant to replace a damaged area of joint tissue. The metal implant can create a smooth surface. This may improve joint performance and decrease pain. U

Resurfacing may be done on the hip, shoulder, or knee joints.

Reasons for Procedure

Cartilage is the protective surface of your joint. It allows smooth movement and cushions the bone. Damaged cartilage can limit joint movement and make it painful to do even basic movements. Osteoarthritis is the most common cause of this damage. It is the gradual wear and tear of joints over time. Less often, the damage is due to a trauma.

A partial replacement may be considered:

• If other treatment options, have failed to improve function or pain. First line options include medicine, joint injections, and physical therapy.
• If pain limits your activities and affects your quality of life.

A partial replacement tends to have less recovery time than a total hip or knee replacement. However, it is not appropriate for all people. Widespread joint damage may require a total joint replacement. The ligaments of the joint will also need to be intact.

Osteoarthritis of the Knee Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Possible Complications

Problems from the procedure are rare, but all procedures have some risk. Your doctor will review potential problems, like:

• Joint pain, stiffness, or instability
• Loose joint
• Dislocation
• Excess bleeding
• Infection
• Blood clots
• Nerve and/or blood vessel injury
• Reaction to anesthesia
• Lack of improvement in physical ability or less than expected

The area of the joint that is not repaired can still wear down. It may lead to additional surgery in the future.

Before your procedure, talk to your doctor about factors that may increase your risk of complications such as:

• Smoking
• Drinking
• Chronic disease, such as diabetes or obesity

What to Expect

Call Your Doctor

It is important for you to monitor your recovery after you leave the hospital. Alert your doctor to any problems right away. If any of the following occur, call your doctor:

• Pain that cannot be controlled with the medications you were given
• Signs of infections, such as fever and chills
• Signs of infection at the incision site, such as warmth, redness, or excess drainage
• Worsening joint stiffness, pain, or instability
• Numbness or tingling in your arms, fingers, legs, or toes

Call for emergency medical services right away for:

Pulmonary embolism, a blood clot that is lodged in the lungs, which may cause:

• Shortness of breath
• Rapid breathing
• Chest pain that occurs when you breathe or cough
• Spitting blood

Deep vein thrombosis, an obstructive blood clot (mainly in the leg), which may cause:

• Leg swelling and tenderness
• Pain in the groin or buttocks
• Swelling in the thigh
• Redness, warmth, or skin discoloration

If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right away.