Arthroplasty, or joint replacement surgery, is a procedure in which joint cartilage that is no longer functioning properly is surgically removed and replaced with an artificial joint surface. In joints that cannot be repaired, the completely damaged joint cartilage is cut out—along with a portion of the underlying bone tissue—and replaced with biocompatible metal materials, either with or without bone cement, to create an artificial joint. The goal here is to replicate the natural, smooth, and functional movements of a healthy joint by creating a new artificial joint. Arthroplasty procedures are among the most commonly performed surgical procedures in the fields of orthopedics and traumatology.
In addition to the hip and knee joints, prosthetic surgery can also be performed on the shoulder, elbow, ankle, wrist, spinal discs, and finger joints. The surgical procedure can be planned as unilateral or bilateral. For bilateral surgeries performed in the same session, it is essential to consider the patient’s age and general condition and to carefully evaluate their medical history prior to surgery. All orthopedic surgical procedures require a team-based approach and coordination. Along with the surgical process, the patient also becomes an integral part of this team. The proficiency of the surgical technique and the patient’s adherence to the postoperative treatment protocol are absolute prerequisites for a successful surgical outcome.