What is joint replacement surgery?

Joint replacement surgery is an operation in which damaged surfaces of a joint are removed and replaced with artificial components. The replacement parts may be made from metal, plastic, ceramic, or a combination of materials. Hip and knee replacements are the most common, although shoulder, elbow, ankle, and some smaller joints can also be replaced in selected patients.

The aim is usually to reduce severe pain, improve movement, and make everyday activities easier when the natural joint has been badly damaged. Osteoarthritis is one of the most common reasons, but joint replacement may also be required after certain injuries, inflammatory arthritis, bone damage, or previous surgery.

Joint replacement does not always mean the entire joint is replaced. In some cases, only the damaged part is resurfaced or replaced, such as a partial knee replacement. The choice depends on where the damage is located and the condition of the surrounding structures. An orthopaedic surgeon uses symptoms, examination, imaging, and previous treatment history to decide whether replacement is appropriate.

Joint replacement is usually considered only after the damaged joint has begun to limit quality of life and simpler treatments are no longer effective enough. It does not restore the joint to its original biological condition, but it can provide a new low-friction surface that reduces pain and supports movement. Rehabilitation remains important because the surrounding muscles still need to regain strength after surgery.