The Division of Joint Replacement in Orthopaedics treats coxarthrosis,
gonarthrosis and other degenerative changes in large and small joints.
Our
services include a wide range of options regarding the implantation of cemented
and non-cemented, uni-, bicompartmental and custom-made endoprostheses of the
hip and knee joint. For these, minimal invasive and muscle sparing procedures
are applied, which promote good postoperative function for both hip and knee
joints and thus reduce postoperative pain.
Regarding the knee, we use both
custom-made artificial joints and modern implants with improved kinematics, and
unicompartmental prostheses, which preserve the ligaments and the adjacent joint
structures. For tumors and revisions, Mega-Endoprostheses are used when
necessary.
Another medical condition which progressively gains importance and
is treated in our department is the avascular necrosis of the femoral head (AVN)
in adults. Our department plays a key role in the preparation of guidelines on
this subject and published - in cooperation with the German Rheumatism League -
a patient guideline that can be accessed at www.AWMF.de. In addition to
operative measures to take care of AVN, conservative treatments are increasingly
being used.
The division of arthroplasty works closely together with the Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, the Leipzig Center for Rheumatic Diseases
and the Hemophilia unit of our hospital in order to ensure optimal
interdisciplinary care for our patients.
Prof. Dr. med. Roth
Head of Division of Endoprothetic Joint Surgery and General Orthopaedics
Range of services
After exhausting all conservative
treatment methods, such as physical therapy, medication, TENS treatment
(delivery of electric current via the skin) and injections into the joint,
Osteoarthrosis should be treated surgically. This allows us to remove the
damaged parts and to replace it with an artificial joint (endoprostheses).
Coxarthrosis
Coxarthrosis is the technical term for the
wear and tear of the hip joint. Typical clinical signs are the occurence of pain
from the groin region to the knee and movement restrictions. When indicated, a
surgical implantation of a total hip replacement (THR) can take place. This is
the replacement of both the acetabulum and the femoral head. The implants are
anchored with or without bone cement, depending on the bone quality. Depending
on the degree and type of wear of the hip joint, a variety of implants are
available. If suitable, a minimal-invasive surgical technique may be used, which
results in less trauma to the tissue and allows a more rapid mobilization of the
patient.
Gonarthrosis
Gonarthrosis refers to the wear of the knee
joint. Clinical signs are, again, pain and movement restrictions and possibly a
progressive deformity of the leg (bow legs, knock knees). The joint replacement
is referred to as total knee replacement (TKR).
Here, the joint surfaces of
the thighbone (femur) and shinbone (tibia) are replaced. Between the two
mechanical hinge components from a metal alloy, a plastic inlay is inserted in
order to provide an adequate range of movement. If only a part of the joint is
affected, a so-called unicompartmental arthroplasty can be implanted. This
results in a better function of the joint.
Other artificial joints
Artificial joints are also
possible with arthrosis of other joints. Worth mentioning here in particular are
the elbow joint, the ankle, shoulder, wrist, thumb saddle joint and the
metacarpophalangeal joints of the fingers. The indication for endoprosthetic
treatment of these joints can be confirmed in our outpatient clinics.
