Preserving mobility: understanding joint preservation surgery

For individuals facing joint issues, particularly in weight-bearing areas like hips and knees, joint preservation surgery emerges as a crucial option. Highly skilled consultant orthopaedic surgeon Mr Sebastian Dawson-Bowling explains what joint preservation surgery entails, its benefits, and discusses considerations for those contemplating this procedure.

Understanding joint preservation surgery

Joint preservation surgery aims to prevent or delay the progression of joint diseases, such as osteoarthritis, by addressing structural abnormalities within the joint. Unlike joint replacement surgery, which involves replacing the damaged joint with prosthetic components, preservation surgery focuses on repairing or reshaping the existing joint tissues.

What are the various types of joint preservation procedures?

Several techniques fall under the umbrella of joint preservation surgery, including:

Osteotomy: This procedure involves cutting and repositioning the bones to relieve pressure on the affected joint. It helps redistribute weight, reducing stress on damaged areas and promoting healing.

Cartilage restoration: Cartilage damage is a common issue in joint disorders. Procedures like microfracture, mosaicplasty, and autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) aim to repair or replace damaged cartilage, restoring smooth joint movement.

Ligament reconstruction: Injuries to ligaments, such as the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in the knee, can destabilise the joint. Reconstruction surgery restores ligament stability, preventing further damage and enhancing joint function.

What are the benefits of joint preservation surgery?

Preserves natural joint: Unlike joint replacement, which involves artificial components, preservation surgery maintains the natural joint anatomy. This often results in better long-term outcomes and preserves more options for future treatments.

Delaying joint replacement: By addressing joint issues early, preservation surgery can delay or even avoid the need for joint replacement surgery in the future, allowing patients to maintain an active lifestyle for longer. Restoring joint stability and repairing damaged tissues can significantly improve joint function, reducing pain and enhancing mobility.

Considerations for patients

Before opting for joint preservation surgery, patients should consider the following:

Severity of condition: Preservation surgery is most effective in the early stages of joint disease when damage is minimal. Patients with advanced joint degeneration may still benefit from preservation techniques, but outcomes can vary.

Rehabilitation: Recovery from joint preservation surgery typically involves a period of rehabilitation, including physiotherapy and a gradual reintroduction to physical activities. Patients should be prepared to commit to this process for optimal results.

Individual health factors: Patients' overall health, age, activity level, and personal goals should be taken into account when considering joint preservation surgery. A thorough discussion with a healthcare provider can help determine suitability and expected outcomes.

In conclusion, joint preservation surgery offers a promising option for individuals seeking to maintain joint function and mobility. By addressing structural issues early and preserving the natural joint, these procedures can significantly improve the quality of life for patients facing joint disorders. However, careful consideration and discussion with healthcare professionals are essential to determine the most suitable course of action for each individual.

If you require joint preservation surgery and would like to book a consultation with Mr Dawson-Bowling, simply visit his Top Doctors profile today