Artificial joint replacement

In general, the following materials are used: Steel alloys or titanium, highly compressed synthetic materials and ceramics. Because a high level of blood loss cannot be ruled out during an operation to fit a prosthesis, and because the date of the operation has usually been fixed in advance, it is possible that the patient will have to donate some of his/her own blood before the operation. This donation is usually made at an out-patient unit about 2-4 weeks before the planned operation.

The in-patient stay in hospital lasts for about 2 weeks. This will be followed by appropriate rehabilitation measures, preferably conducted in a rehabilitation unit over a period of 3-4 weeks. Intensive physiotherapy is used to promote mobility and the building up of muscles again. Even everyday movements, such as the correct method of getting in and out of a car will have to be re-learnt. The object is to train the muscles of the leg and pelvis so that they can derive the maximum benefit from their restored mobility.

After rehabilitation you should be largely free from pain. It is important that you continue to do your daily exercises at home after being discharged from hospital. After a few months you will be able to enjoy your life to the full again – both at home and in your career. You should continue to pursue your hobbies and to play sport. You may do all forms of sort which do not overtax the joints; swimming, cycling, walking, cross-country skiing, Nordic walking or gymnastics. You should not, however, put too much strain on your joints and should not do any heavy lifting (a max. load of 20 % of your own bodyweight is recommended) and you should refrain from strenuous sports, such as squash, tennis or Alpine skiing. In the months and years following your operation you should make sure that you take advantage of your doctor’s regular follow-up services, even if you are symptom-free. In this way, you will give your doctor the chance to monitor your recovery and rehabilitation.