Hip and knee replacement (arthroplasty) is a surgical treatment in which badly damaged parts of the joint are replaced with artificial implants. The operation can help reduce pain and improve mobility when the joint disease is advanced and conservative treatment is no longer effective enough.
Baltic American Clinic performs hip and knee replacement operations. Treatment is planned individually, taking into account the condition of the joint, your general health, your mobility and your expectations.
Assessment of the joint damage and of the indications for surgery.
The treatment approach is chosen according to the diagnosis and your state of health.
Hip and knee replacement operations.
Monitoring of healing and advice on further recovery.
When is joint replacement considered?
- Your hip or knee hurts constantly, even at rest.
- The pain disturbs your sleep and daily activities.
- It is difficult to walk, climb stairs or stand up.
- Movement of the joint is severely limited.
- Medication, physiotherapy and other measures no longer give enough relief.
- Imaging tests show advanced changes in the joint.
The need for surgery is decided not on the X-ray alone, but also on your symptoms, joint function and general health.
In which cases is joint replacement performed?
Hip osteoarthritis
Advanced disease can cause pain in the groin, thigh or buttock, limping and restricted movement.
Knee osteoarthritis
Pain, stiffness and deformity can make walking and everyday activities difficult.
Other causes of joint damage
In certain cases, joint replacement is considered because of other degenerative, inflammatory or post-traumatic changes.
How do preparation and surgery work?
Your symptoms, mobility, previous treatment and the indications for surgery are assessed.
The necessary X-rays and other tests that help plan the operation are carried out.
Your general health, other conditions, the medicines you take and the anaesthetic risk are assessed.
During the operation the damaged parts of the joint are removed and the selected prosthesis components are implanted.
After the operation you are monitored, your pain is managed and safe movement is started according to the treatment plan.
The aim is to restore joint movement, muscle strength and independent mobility.
How to prepare for surgery
Before the operation, the doctor gives you an individual plan of tests and preparation. It is important to tell the doctor about the medicines you take, allergies, chronic conditions and previous operations.
It is also advisable to arrange in advance for help at home, walking aids and post-operative rehabilitation.
What are the possible risks?
As with other major operations, possible complications include infection, bleeding, thromboembolic complications, nerve damage, instability of the prosthesis, dislocation or wear of the implants.
The doctor discusses your individual risk and the ways to reduce it before the operation.
When is urgent care needed after surgery?
Seek urgent care if you develop shortness of breath, chest pain, sudden swelling of the leg, severe unusual pain in the joint, fever or signs of wound infection. If symptoms are life-threatening, call 112.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is joint replacement only done for older patients?
No. The key criteria are the severity of the joint damage, your symptoms and function, and the individual indications for treatment.
Will I need a walking frame or crutches after surgery?
Walking aids are often used in the early period. Whether you need them and for how long is decided individually.
How long does a joint replacement last?
Modern implants can last for many years, but how long they last depends on the type of implant, the loads placed on it and individual factors.
Can I do sport after joint replacement?
In most cases you can return to the physical activity your doctor recommends. High-impact activities are assessed individually.
Is rehabilitation needed before surgery?
Good physical preparation can help recovery after surgery, but the type of exercise and the load depend on your condition.
Price of hip and knee replacement
Prices for hip and knee replacement and for pre-operative consultations and tests are set by the Baltic American Clinic price list in force and the applicable payment terms.
Before the operation, it is discussed individually how implants, anaesthesia, inpatient stay, post-operative care and other services are included in the total cost of treatment.