Joint Replacement

Many people with osteoarthritis of the hips or knees gradually stop doing the things they love and just adapt their lives to cope with reduced mobility. We’re here to help you get your life back.

You are not like anyone else and you don’t move like anyone else, so when it comes to choosing a hip, knee, or shoulder replacement, your orthopedic surgeon will look for the one that fits your lifestyle. The hip or knee that is right for you will provide a more natural feel and movement. Joint replacement can give you the freedom to do things you love to do.

Total Hip Replacement

The procedure itself takes a few hours. Your orthopedic surgeon will remove the damaged cartilage and bone and then position the new metal, plastic, or ceramic joint surfaces to restore the alignment and function of your hip.

Many different types of designs and materials are currently used in artificial hip joints. All of them consist of two basic components: 

• The ball component – made of a highly polished strong metal or ceramic material 
• The socket component – a durable cup made of plastic, ceramic or metal, which may have an outer metal shell

Special surgical cement may be used to fill the gap between the prosthesis and remaining natural bone to secure the artificial joint. Your orthopaedic surgeon will choose the type of prosthesis that best meets your needs for your hip replacement surgery.

Total Knee Replacement

The procedure itself takes approximately 2 hours. Your orthopedic surgeon will remove the damaged cartilage and bone and then position the new metal and plastic joint surfaces to restore the alignment and function of your knee.

Many different types of designs and materials are currently used in total knee replacement surgery. Nearly all consist of three components: 

• The femoral component – made of a highly polished strong metal
• The tibial component – made of a durable plastic often held in a metal tray
• The patellar component – made of plastic

Comprehensive Care for Joint Replacement (CJR) model

Augusta Health is participating in a New Care Improvement Initiative from Medicare to provide better, more coordinated care for hip and knee replacements and other major leg procedures.