Kerala

Joint Replacement

In human body joints are made up of articulation of two or more adjoining bones. The joint has to move constantly at the same time provide good stability to the participating bones. The end of the bones is covered with a special tissue called cartilage. This articular cartilage is extremely smooth like marble, has no blood supply and thus has to depend solely on the nutrients from the synovial fluid in which it is bathed. When a bone is fractured it repairs by replacing the same sort of tissue. But the damage to the articular cartilage leads to Osteo arthritis and pain. In arthritis, the smooth cartilage surface is totally eroded and looks like damaged marble with its underlying rough surface exposed and when the surface comes in contact during movements the patient experiences pain.

Congenital deformities in and around the joint can lead to early wear and tear. Fracture or injuries inside or in the proximity of joint can lead to premature arthritis. Various rheumatic disorders that affect the joints can lead to early Osteo arthritis. Deformities of limbs like bow leg etc. can lead to abnormal weight bearing through the joints and lead to Osteo arthritis. Age related wear and tear is the single most common cause of Osteo arthritis. Largely any joint can be affected by this disorder, but the weight bearing joints of lower limb, especially hip and knee are the most commonly affected. Pain on initiating movements is the early symptom. As time passes the patient feels difficulty in walking even for short distances. In the early phase of the disease, reducing the body weight, specific muscle strengthening exercises, alteration of life style, physiotherapy, all can help reduce pain. But when disease advances the option is only surgery known as joint replacement surgery. Since the hip and knee are the most commonly affected by Osteo arthritis, they are most replaced by artificial joints made of special alloys and plastics glued to the bones using bone cement.

Dr. E.G. Mohankumar

HOD & Med. Supdt.

Al Shifa Hospital,

Perinthalmanna

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