Our Summary

This research paper looks at trends in total joint replacement (TJR) surgery in Taiwan from 1998 to 2009. TJR includes total knee replacement (TKR) and total hip replacement (THR) surgeries. The study found that from 1998 to 2009, the number of primary TKRs nearly doubled, and the number of primary THRs increased by a little over 10%. The number of repeat TKR surgeries increased slightly, while the number of repeat THR surgeries decreased. Looking forward, the study predicts that by 2030, the rates of primary TKR and THR will have increased by over 500% and nearly 70% respectively from 2005 levels. The rate of repeat TKR surgeries is also expected to increase, while the rate of repeat THR surgeries is predicted to decrease. This information can help with future planning for budget and resources related to TJR in Taiwan.

FAQs

  1. What is the trend in total joint replacement surgeries in Taiwan from 1998 to 2009?
  2. How much is the rate of primary total knee replacement and total hip replacement surgeries expected to increase by 2030?
  3. Based on the research, what are the predictions for the rate of repeat total knee replacement and total hip replacement surgeries by 2030?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing hip replacement surgery to follow their post-operative care instructions carefully, including doing prescribed exercises to strengthen the hip joint and surrounding muscles. It is important to avoid putting excessive weight on the hip joint too soon and to use assistive devices like a walker or cane as needed to prevent falls. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight and staying active can help ensure the success of the hip replacement surgery in the long term.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for hip replacement surgery include those with severe hip pain that limits their daily activities, stiffness in the hip joint that makes it difficult to move, hip pain that persists even while resting, hip pain that does not improve with non-surgical treatments such as medication, physical therapy, or assistive devices, and hip pain that is caused by conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, hip fractures, or avascular necrosis. Additionally, patients who have tried other treatments without success and are in overall good health are also good candidates for hip replacement surgery.

Timeline

Before hip replacement surgery, a patient may experience chronic hip pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion. They may have difficulty walking, standing, or performing daily activities. The patient may have tried non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, medications, injections, and assistive devices without success.

After hip replacement surgery, the patient will typically stay in the hospital for a few days for monitoring and rehabilitation. They will work with physical therapists to regain strength, flexibility, and mobility in the hip joint. Pain medication will be prescribed to manage post-operative pain. The patient will gradually increase their activity level and return to normal daily activities. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor the healing process and ensure the hip joint is functioning properly. Over time, the patient should experience decreased pain, improved mobility, and a better quality of life.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the reasons for recommending a hip replacement surgery?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with hip replacement surgery?
  3. What is the expected recovery time and rehabilitation process after hip replacement surgery?
  4. What type of implant will be used for the hip replacement and why?
  5. How long can I expect the hip replacement to last?
  6. What are the alternatives to hip replacement surgery?
  7. Will I need to make any lifestyle changes after the hip replacement surgery?
  8. How often will follow-up appointments be needed after the surgery?
  9. What activities should I avoid after hip replacement surgery?
  10. Are there any specific exercises or physical therapy that will help with recovery and rehabilitation after hip replacement surgery?

Reference

Authors: Kumar A, Tsai WC, Tan TS, Kung PT, Chiu LT, Ku MC. Journal: J Chin Med Assoc. 2015 Sep;78(9):538-44. doi: 10.1016/j.jcma.2015.06.005. Epub 2015 Aug 28. PMID: 26318767