Joint Replacement: Myths and Truths

Hip and knee replacement surgeries are major surgeries that have been performed for decades. The hip or knee replacement experience in 2020 is markedly different from what it was decades ago, and advancements continue to be made. In this post, we will address some common myths (and truths) about joint replacement surgery.

Myth: I would have to go to nursing facility after my joint replacement surgery.

Truth: Most people go home after joint replacement surgery. It is the rare person that requires a nursing facility following modern joint replacement surgery. This is due to a rapid recovery protocol that includes pre-operative education, better pain control, early rehabilitation, and improved blood management. In fact, some people are able to go home within 23 hours from surgery, and most people are able to go home within 48 hours from surgery.

Myth: I need to donate blood before surgery.

Truth: You do not have to donate blood prior to joint replacement surgery. This was common when joint replacement surgery involved a high likelihood of requiring blood transfusions, but modern joint replacement involves enhanced blood management protocols to include use of medications that decrease the risk of transfusion. As such, the typical person undergoing a routine primary joint replacement with a normal blood count prior to surgery is unlikely to require a blood transfusion.

Myth: I need a CPM (Continuous Passive Motion) machine after my knee replacement.

Truth: You do not need a CPM machine. It is no longer common practice to require a machine that bends your knee when just lying in bed. There is no increase in motion with its use in the typical patient. In fact, there might be an increase in pain after surgery with the use of a CPM machine.

Myth: Joint replacements are only good for about 10-15 years.

Truth: Joint replacements last longer today than they did 30 years ago. Joint replacement surgeries are no longer procedures that are performed with a future revision in mind. Joint replacements fail at a rate of about 1 to 1.5% a year meaning most people will still have their joint replacements in place after 15 years.