Joint replacement (arthroplasty) is an operation in which a damaged joint, or the worn part of it, is replaced with artificial parts (an implant). It is usually considered after a long period of joint pain, when medicines, exercises, physiotherapy and other treatments no longer give enough relief.
The joints replaced most often are the knee, hip and shoulder. Depending on the damage, the operation may be a total replacement, a partial replacement, or a revision of an earlier replacement that has failed.
PMG Hospital (PMG Orthopedic Hospital), Gota, is an orthopedic hospital for joint replacement in Ahmedabad, where knee, hip and shoulder replacement and revision surgery are performed. This page explains what arthroplasty involves, which joints can be replaced, when surgery is considered, the procedure, recovery, risks and cost factors.
What Is Arthroplasty (Joint Replacement)?
In a healthy joint, smooth cartilage covers the ends of the bones and allows them to move easily against each other. When the cartilage wears away or the joint is damaged, the bones rub together, causing pain, stiffness and difficulty moving.
In a joint replacement, the damaged surfaces are removed and replaced with an implant made of metal, medical-grade plastic (polyethylene) or ceramic. The parts are fixed to the bone with or without bone cement. The aim is to relieve pain and improve movement and daily function.
Is Arthroplasty the Same as Joint Replacement?
In everyday use, yes. Arthroplasty is the medical term for an operation that rebuilds or replaces a joint, and joint replacement (replacement arthroplasty) is its most common form. Both terms are used for the same operation on this page.
Which Joints Can Be Replaced?
Knee Replacement
The knee is the joint replaced most often. The worn surfaces of the thigh bone and shin bone are covered with metal parts, with a plastic insert between them. When arthritis affects only one part of the knee, a partial (unicompartmental) knee replacement may be possible. At PMG Hospital, robotic assistance with the ROSA Knee System is available for knee replacement.
Hip Replacement
In a total hip replacement, the ball at the upper end of the thigh bone and the socket in the pelvis are replaced. In a partial hip replacement (hemiarthroplasty), only the ball is replaced; this is used mainly for some hip fractures in older patients.
Shoulder Replacement
In an anatomic total shoulder replacement, the ball and socket are replaced in their natural arrangement. In a reverse shoulder replacement, their positions are swapped, which is used mainly when the rotator cuff tendons are badly torn. In a partial shoulder replacement, only the ball is replaced.
Revision Joint Replacement
When an earlier knee, hip or shoulder replacement becomes loose, worn, unstable or infected, a revision operation may be needed to correct or replace it.
| Joint | Main types | Related pages |
|---|---|---|
| Knee | Total, partial (unicompartmental) and revision knee replacement; robotic-assisted knee replacement | Knee replacement · Total · Partial · Revision · Robotic |
| Hip | Total, partial (hemiarthroplasty) and revision hip replacement | Hip replacement · Total · Partial · Revision |
| Shoulder | Anatomic total, reverse, partial (hemiarthroplasty) and revision shoulder replacement | Shoulder replacement · Total · Partial · Revision |
| Revision of any of these joints | Correction or replacement of a failed knee, hip or shoulder replacement | Revisional joint replacement |
Other joints, such as the elbow and ankle, can also be replaced in selected cases, but these operations are less common.
When Is Joint Replacement Recommended?
| Cause | What happens |
|---|---|
| Osteoarthritis | Gradual wear of the joint cartilage; the most common reason |
| Rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory arthritis | Inflammation that damages the joint |
| Avascular necrosis (osteonecrosis) | Loss of blood supply to the bone, which weakens and collapses; it often affects the hip and shoulder |
| Arthritis after injury | Arthritis that develops after an earlier fracture or injury of the joint |
| Some fractures | Some hip and shoulder fractures in older adults, when the fracture cannot be fixed well |
| Rotator cuff tear arthropathy | A large, long-standing rotator cuff tear that leads to arthritis of the shoulder |
Signs That It May Be Time for an Assessment
- Joint pain that disturbs sleep or is present at rest
- Difficulty walking, climbing stairs, getting up from a chair, or reaching and lifting
- Stiffness or loss of movement that limits daily activities
- A deformity of the joint, or a joint that feels unstable
- Pain that continues despite medicines, exercises, physiotherapy and other treatments
Treatment Before Surgery
Unless there is a fracture that needs surgery, joint replacement is usually advised only after other treatments have been tried, such as:
- Weight reduction when needed, and regular low-impact exercise
- Physiotherapy to strengthen the muscles around the joint
- Pain-relief medicines, used as advised by a doctor
- Walking aids and changes to daily activities
- Joint injections in selected patients, which may give temporary relief
A joint replacement treatment hospital in Ahmedabad should provide these non-surgical treatments as well as surgery, because not every painful joint needs an operation. Tell the surgeon about any recent joint injection, because a steroid injection into the joint in the months before a replacement may increase the risk of infection.
Total vs Partial Joint Replacement
Not every damaged joint needs a total replacement. What "partial" means depends on the joint:
| Joint | Total replacement | Partial replacement |
|---|---|---|
| Knee | All the worn surfaces of the knee are replaced; used when arthritis affects the whole knee | Only one part (compartment) of the knee is replaced; used when arthritis is limited to one part and the ligaments are healthy. Recovery is often quicker, but the chance of needing further surgery later is somewhat higher than after a total knee replacement |
| Hip | Both the ball and the socket are replaced | Only the ball is replaced (hemiarthroplasty); used mainly for some hip fractures in older patients |
| Shoulder | Both the ball and the socket are replaced (anatomic or reverse) | Only the ball is replaced (hemiarthroplasty); used when the damage is limited to the ball and the socket is healthy |
The choice depends on the pattern of damage, the condition of the ligaments or tendons, the bone, and the patient's age, health and activity level. It is decided after examination and X-rays or scans.
Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement
In robotic-assisted knee replacement, the surgeon uses a robotic system to take measurements of the knee during the operation and to guide the size, position and alignment of the implant according to the surgical plan. The robot does not perform the operation on its own; the surgeon performs the surgery.
Robotic assistance is used to help position the implant according to the surgical plan. Whether this leads to better long-term pain relief, function or implant life compared with conventional surgery is still being studied. Conventional surgery is also widely used, and not every knee needs robotic assistance.
At PMG Hospital, robotic-assisted knee replacement is performed using the ROSA Knee System (Zimmer Biomet). Robotic assistance is described on this page for knee replacement only.
Assessment Before Surgery
A joint replacement doctor in Ahmedabad - an orthopaedic surgeon - assesses the joint before advising surgery:
- 1History and examination: pain, movement, strength, stability and walking, and nearby areas such as the spine or neck, which can also cause pain felt around a joint
- 2X-rays: to see the joint and the bone
- 3MRI, CT scan or ultrasound: in selected cases, for example to assess the rotator cuff of the shoulder, early avascular necrosis or the bone of the shoulder socket
- 4Fitness for surgery: blood tests, ECG, blood sugar and blood pressure control, and checks of the heart, lungs and kidneys as needed
- 5Infection check: any skin, dental or urinary infection is treated before surgery
- 6Medicines: blood thinners and some other medicines may need to be stopped or changed, only as advised by the doctor
Joint Replacement Surgery in Ahmedabad: Step by Step
The main steps are similar in any joint replacement surgery hospital in Ahmedabad:
- 1Anaesthesia: spinal anaesthesia (numbing the lower body) is commonly used for knee and hip replacement, and general anaesthesia for shoulder replacement, often with a nerve block for pain relief after surgery
- 2Approach: the joint is reached through a cut over the joint
- 3Preparing the bone: the damaged cartilage and bone are removed and the bone is shaped to fit the implant
- 4Fitting the implant: the implant is fixed with or without bone cement, and the joint is checked for movement, stability and alignment
- 5Closure: the muscles, tendons and skin are closed and dressed
- 6Duration: the operation usually takes about one to two hours, and longer for revision surgery
Recovery After Joint Replacement
| Time | Knee and hip replacement | Shoulder replacement |
|---|---|---|
| Day of surgery or the next day | Standing and first steps with a walker and the physiotherapist | Arm in a sling; walking about; hand, wrist and elbow exercises |
| First few days | Pain control, exercises, walking with support; discharge when safe | Pain control and gentle exercises; discharge when safe |
| Weeks 1–2 | Walking with support; stitches or staples removed when the wound has healed | Sling worn as advised; stitches or staples removed when the wound has healed |
| Weeks 3–6 | Less need for support; home exercises; light daily activities | Sling usually worn for about four to six weeks; gentle shoulder exercises |
| Around 6 weeks or later | Driving, once the surgeon allows it | More active exercises after the sling is stopped; driving once the surgeon allows it |
| 3–6 months and beyond | Strength and stamina continue to improve | Strength and movement continue to improve for up to a year |
This is a general guide, not a fixed timetable. Recovery depends on the joint, the type of surgery, general health and how regularly the exercises are done, and is slower after revision surgery or surgery for a fracture.
How Long Does a Joint Replacement Last?
Large studies combining joint registry data and published case series show that most total knee and total hip replacements are still in place without needing further surgery 15 to 20 years after the operation; partial knee replacements have a somewhat higher chance of needing further surgery. For shoulder replacements, about nine in ten had not needed revision surgery 10 years after the operation, and information on longer periods is limited. How long an implant lasts depends on the joint, age, weight, activity level, bone quality and the type of implant. Regular follow-up visits help to detect wear or loosening early.
Sources: Evans JT et al. The Lancet. 2019;393:655–663 (knee) and 2019;393:647–654 (hip); Evans JP et al. The Lancet Rheumatology. 2020;2:e539–e548 (shoulder).
Risks and Possible Complications
Joint replacement is a common operation, but no surgery is without risk. The surgeon explains these risks before taking consent.
- Infection of the wound or around the implant, which may need further surgery
- Blood clots in the leg veins (deep vein thrombosis) or lungs (pulmonary embolism)
- Dislocation or instability of the new joint, especially after hip and shoulder replacement
- Injury to nerves or blood vessels, which is uncommon
- Fracture of the bone around the implant during or after surgery
- Stiffness, continuing pain or a difference in leg length (after hip replacement) in some patients
- Loosening or wear of the implant over time, which may need revision surgery
- Anaesthesia-related and general medical risks, such as heart, lung or kidney problems, especially in older patients or those with other illnesses
Risks specific to each joint are explained on the knee, hip and shoulder replacement pages.
Joint Replacement Surgery Hospital in Ahmedabad
When choosing a joint replacement hospital in Ahmedabad, check that the treating surgeon is a qualified orthopaedic surgeon with valid medical council registration, that the hospital regularly performs this operation, how infection is prevented, which implants and tests are available, what physiotherapy and follow-up are provided, and what the written estimate includes.
Look beyond general phrases such as "a joint replacement hospital with modern facilities" and ask which facilities are actually available on site.
Joint Replacement Surgery Cost in Ahmedabad
- The joint, and whether the surgery is a total, partial or revision operation
- The implant chosen
- Robotic-assisted or conventional surgery (for knee replacement)
- One joint or both
- Length of hospital stay and room category
- Other medical conditions and any extra care needed
- Physiotherapy and follow-up
A written, itemised estimate can be requested from the hospital after assessment.
Insurance
- Medically necessary joint replacement is generally covered under health insurance policies, subject to policy terms, waiting periods and insurer approval
- Some policies have limits on room rent or implant costs; check these with your insurer before surgery
- Ask the hospital whether cashless treatment is available with your insurer, and which documents are needed
Joint Replacement Doctor in Ahmedabad
Joint replacement is advised and performed by an orthopaedic surgeon, usually one who works in joint replacement (arthroplasty). Several other doctors and therapists help before and after the operation:
| Doctor or therapist | Role in joint replacement care |
|---|---|
| Family physician | First assessment of joint pain; helps control diabetes and blood pressure, and refers to an orthopaedic surgeon |
| Orthopaedic surgeon | Confirms the diagnosis, decides whether a total, partial or revision operation is needed, and performs the surgery |
| Rheumatologist | Treats rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory arthritis, and advises on these medicines around surgery |
| Radiologist | Performs and reports X-rays and, when needed, MRI, CT or ultrasound |
| Physician or cardiologist | Checks fitness for surgery when there is heart, lung or kidney disease, or diabetes |
| Anaesthetist | Performs the pre-anaesthesia check-up and gives the anaesthesia, nerve block and pain relief |
| Physiotherapist | Starts movement and exercises after surgery and guides recovery at home |
Joint Replacement Surgery Doctor in Ahmedabad
Before agreeing to an operation, it is reasonable to ask your joint replacement surgery doctor in Ahmedabad a few clear questions. The answers help you understand the plan and give informed consent.
- What do my X-rays show, and why is a replacement advised now?
- Which implant is planned, and will it be fixed with or without bone cement?
- For knee replacement, is robotic assistance advised in my case, and why or why not?
- Are my blood sugar, blood pressure and other conditions controlled well enough for surgery?
- If two joints are affected, should they be operated on together or separately?
- How will pain be controlled after surgery?
- How many days will I stay in hospital, and what help will I need at home?
- How often will I need follow-up visits and X-rays in the long term?
Joint Replacement Treatment Hospital in Ahmedabad
Joint replacement needs an operation theatre set up for implant surgery, safe anaesthesia and physiotherapy soon after the operation. These are the facilities that matter most:
| Facility | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Operation theatre suitable for joint replacement, with strict infection control | Infection around an implant is a serious complication |
| Anaesthesia services | Needed for spinal or general anaesthesia, nerve blocks and pain relief after surgery |
| X-ray, access to other scans, and laboratory tests | Used to plan surgery, check the implant position and monitor recovery |
| Blood transfusion support | Some patients need blood after joint replacement |
| Physiotherapy | Movement and walking usually start on the day of surgery or the next day |
| Access to intensive care | Needed for some high-risk patients and for revision surgery |
| Follow-up arrangements | Regular follow-up helps to detect wear or loosening of the implant early |
The facilities available at PMG Hospital are listed further below on this page.
Treating Surgeon
At PMG Hospital, joint replacement is performed by:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Dr. Hiren Patel |
| Qualification | MS (Ortho), B.J. Medical College, Ahmedabad |
| Specialty | Orthopaedics |
| Designation | Director & Head Joint Replacement Surgeon, PMG Hospital |
| Registration status | Registered Medical Practitioner |
| Registration number | Gujarat Medical Council Reg. No. G-20583 |
| OPD availability | Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM |
Facilities at PMG Hospital
- Orthopaedic OPD, Monday to Saturday
- Emergency and trauma care, 24×7
- Orthopaedic physiotherapy centre
- Robotic-assisted knee replacement system (ROSA Knee System)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is arthroplasty the same as joint replacement?
In everyday use, yes. Arthroplasty is the medical term for an operation that rebuilds or replaces a joint, and joint replacement is the most common type. Both terms describe replacing a damaged joint, or the worn part of it, with artificial parts to relieve pain and improve movement.
Which joints can be replaced?
The joints replaced most often are the knee, hip and shoulder. Depending on the pattern of damage, the replacement may be total or partial. Other joints, such as the elbow and ankle, can also be replaced in selected cases, but these operations are less common.
When should I see a doctor about joint replacement?
See an orthopaedic surgeon if joint pain disturbs sleep, limits walking, climbing stairs, reaching or other daily activities, or no longer responds to medicines, exercises, physiotherapy or injections. A fall followed by severe joint pain, a change in shape or inability to stand or move the joint needs emergency care.
Total or partial replacement - which is suitable?
It depends on the joint and how much of it is damaged. A total replacement is used when the damage affects the whole joint. A partial replacement may be possible when only one part is damaged, for example one compartment of the knee, or only the ball of the hip or shoulder in selected patients. The surgeon decides after examination and X-rays or scans.
Is there an age limit for joint replacement?
There is no fixed age limit. General health and fitness for surgery matter more than age. Younger, more active patients are more likely to need further surgery later in life, because implants can wear or loosen over time, so the timing of surgery is discussed carefully.
How long does recovery take after joint replacement?
After knee or hip replacement, many patients stand and walk with support on the day of surgery or the next day, and most daily activities return over about three to six months. After shoulder replacement, the arm is usually kept in a sling for about four to six weeks, and strength continues to improve for up to a year. Recovery differs from person to person.
How long does a joint replacement last?
Large studies combining joint registry data and published case series (The Lancet, 2019; The Lancet Rheumatology, 2020) show that most total knee and total hip replacements are still in place without needing further surgery 15 to 20 years after the operation, and that about nine in ten shoulder replacements had not needed revision surgery 10 years after the operation. How long an implant lasts depends on the joint, age, weight, activity level, bone quality and the type of implant.
What are the risks of joint replacement?
Risks include infection, blood clots, dislocation or instability, nerve or blood vessel injury, fracture, stiffness, loosening or wear of the implant needing revision surgery, and anaesthesia-related and general medical risks. The surgeon explains how these apply to you before you consent.
What facilities should a hospital have for joint replacement?
It should have an operation theatre suitable for joint replacement with strict infection-control practices, anaesthesia services, X-ray and access to other scans, laboratory tests, blood transfusion support, physiotherapy, access to intensive care for high-risk patients, and arrangements for follow-up.
What decides the cost of joint replacement?
The cost depends on the joint, whether the surgery is a total, partial or revision operation, the implant, the use of robotic assistance for knee replacement, one joint or both, the length of hospital stay, room category, other medical conditions and physiotherapy. A written, itemised estimate can be requested from the hospital after assessment.
Contact and Location
PMG Hospital
3rd Floor, Athena Avenue, B/H Jaguar Showroom, Nr. Eulogia Inn Hotel, Gota, Ahmedabad, India
- Phone / WhatsApp:
- +91 96627 70141
- OPD:
- Mon – Sat · 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Emergency and trauma care:
- 24×7