arthroplasty

Arthroplasty is a surgical procedure that involves the replacement or reconstruction of a joint. This is often done to treat conditions like osteoarthritis, which is a disorder characterized by the progressive deterioration of joint cartilage and surrounding tissues. Osteoarthritis can lead to pain, stiffness, and limited movement, commonly affecting weight-bearing joints such as the knees and hips.1

While osteoarthritis involves joint deterioration, arthroplasty aims to restore function. Surgical options can include joint replacement, such as hip or knee replacement, or debridement to remove unhealthy tissue. Another related surgical procedure is arthrodesis, which is the surgical immobilization of a joint to allow the bones to fuse together. Treatment for osteoarthritis can range from pain relief and physical therapy to surgical interventions like arthroplasty.12