Joint replacement surgery (also known as arthroplasty) is a procedure in which portions of a damaged joint are removed and replaced with an artificial implants. The most common joints replaced are the hip and knee, but others, such as the shoulder, elbow, wrist, and ankle can also be replaced.
Joint replacement surgery is performed to relieve pain and improve function in a damaged joint. Arthritis is the most common condition reason a person might have joint replacement surgery, however, it may also be used to treat traumas, bone tumors, deformities other conditions.
Updated: 6/7/2023