Total Joint Replacements

• Total knee replacement requires anesthesia and takes approximately one to two hours.
• The surgeon removes the worn out surface of the thigh bone (femur) and shinbone (tibia). They replace it with implants that are secured to the bone.
  • The kneecap (patella) may also have the worn out surface of the bone removed and replaced with an implant.
• A plastic spacer is placed between the implants to create a smooth gliding surface, like cartilage, which helps with joint movement.

X-ray of a total knee replacement

• Surgery takes one to two hours and may be performed using general anesthesia or a spinal block.
• After confirming the amount of joint damage, the surgeon removes and resurfaces the affected cartilage and bone with an artificial implant.
• Ligaments, which help keep the knee stable, remain intact after knee replacement.

• During a surgery lasting one to two hours, the damaged socket and ball are removed and replaced with implants.
• The age, weight, and the degree of joint damage will determine the location of the surgical incision. It may be located down the side of your hip or in the groin area.
• Robotic or X-ray assistance may be used to ensure appropriate alignment of the prosthetic ball and socket.

X-ray of a total hip replacement

• During a one to two hour procedure under general anesthesia, the surgeon removes the worn out surface of the bone from the shoulder ball and socket.
• If the rotator cuff is intact, the surgeon replaces the damaged areas with the new plastic socket and a metal ball on the upper arm bone.
  • Sometimes, only the ball part of the shoulder needs to be replaced. This is less common. It is called a hemiarthroplasty.

X-ray of an anatomical shoulder replacement

• The surgery takes approximately one to two hours.
• Unlike traditional shoulder replacement, it reverses the ball and socket. It places the ball on the shoulder blade and the socket on the upper arm bone.
• This surgery allows the patient to lift the arm with the deltoid muscle instead of the rotator cuff.
  • The deltoid muscle is the thick, rounded muscle that covers the top of your shoulder. It gives your shoulder its shape and helps you lift and move your arm.

X-ray of a reverse shoulder replacement

A joint replacement is designed to last a long time. For many, it will last a lifetime. Factors that can impact durability include your age, the technique used, and complications such as injury or infection.

• Knee — Data indicate that on average 86% of total knee replacements are still in place after 15 years and 77% survive for 25 years.⁴
• Hip — It is estimated about three-quarters of hip replacements last 15-20 years and just over half of hip replacements last 25 years in patients with osteoarthritis. ⁵
• Shoulder — Researchers estimate that about 90% of shoulder replacements are in place and still beneficial to patients after more than 10 years.⁶

Costs for joint replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, will vary by joint replaced and technique used, days of hospitalization, insurance coverage, and more. SSM Health is dedicated to working with patients to provide accurate, transparent, and fair pricing. We offer a pricing transparency tool to help you estimate the cost of your procedure. We also accept Medicare, Medicaid, and most forms of private insurance. See the full list of insurance providers we accept.

You won't feel any pain during the procedure itself because you'll be under anesthesia.

After surgery, it's normal to experience some pain and swelling. The initial pain can be intense, but it gradually decreases over time. Your medical team will help you manage your pain through pain relief medications, cold therapy, and other strategies. Your healing and recovery are our top priorities.

Robotic-assisted surgery has made joint replacement surgery more accurate and precise.

Robot assistants are used at some SSM Health hospitals. A surgeon controls a robotic arm for precise implant alignment and placement. It uses imaging scans to create a virtual view of the patient's unique anatomy. This cutting-edge technology guides the implant positioning and ensures more consistent outcomes.

Artificial joints are usually made from a mix of metal, ceramic, and plastic materials. The specific materials and combinations depend on the type of joint being replaced and the patient's individual needs.