Patient Info


WHAT IS ARTHRITIS

The word “arthritis” means joint inflammation. arth = joint itis = inflammation. Arthritis results if any part of a joint becomes diseased – the lining, the joint fluid, the joint surface or the bones themselves. Direct injury to the joint, over-use or wear and tear, physical defect in the joint (which has been present since birth), may lead to arthritis.

INFLAMMATION

This is the body’s normal response to an injury, infection or disease, resulting in temporary swelling, pain and stiffness. In arthritic joints the inflammation may be long term and may result in permanent damage and wearing away of the surface of the joint. This causes the bone ends to become roughened and makes movement difficult.

OSTEOARTHRITIS

In osteoarthritis, the cartilage covering the bone ends becomes rough and wears away leaving the smooth ends of bone exposed. These surfaces then become uneven which results in the joint becoming painful and swollen. Some joints may become enlarged and develop bony growth or osteophytes which will cause pain.

RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

This is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects mainly the joints, but can also affect other parts of the body. People of all ages, including children, can suffer from this disease. All the joints can be affected and many may be involved at the same time. In Rheumatoid Arthritis the smooth lining of the joint becomes inflamed and very painful. The joint then releases the chemical substances, which attack and gradually destroy the cartilage of the joint surface. Inflammation occurs in response to this, which results in swelling, pain and stiffness in the joint.

WHAT CAN BE DONE?

Some people can be managed conservatively e.g. medication, physiotherapy and modification of activities that cause pain. However, if the joint pain or disability cannot be controlled, there may be an indication for surgery. Your orthopaedic surgeon will consider the impact on your social, domestic or professional life and whether your independence is threatened. There are two objectives for having surgery:

1. to reduce pain
2. to improve function.



PREPARING FOR YOUR SURGERY

Approximately a month before your surgery you will be required to consult a Physician for your pre-admission. This is a full medical examination to ensure that you are fit for surgery. Speak to your Physician or Surgeon about donating your own blood or having a family member donate for you.

The following tests may be done:

- Blood tests, to check if you are anaemic and cross match blood if you need a blood transfusion after surgery.

- ECG (Electrocardiogram) or tracing of your heart beat to ensure that your heart is strong enough for the operation

- Chest x-rays
- Lung function test

About two weeks before your surgery a Nursing Sister will visit you and answer any questions you may have and assist with home environment for your return.

You will need to come into hospital on the day before your surgery. You will be
- admitted by the nursing staff,
- assessed by the Physiotherapist and Anaesthetist,
- visited by the Surgeon, Physician and Nurse that saw you at home,
- An AV Impulse machine that assists with circulation immediately post surgery will be fitted to your feet.

Eight hours before surgery, eating or drinking ceases.