Bone-Sparing Joint Resurfacing in Northern California

Joint resurfacing is a form of orthopedic surgery that replaces only part of a damaged joint with artificial materials. This type of partial joint replacement saves more of the existing, healthy portion of the joint.

At Dignity Health North State, skilled orthopedic surgeons perform joint resurfacing in Northern California to treat joint problems of the knee, hip, and shoulder. If you or a loved one would like to meet with a specialist, use our online search tool and Find a Doctor near you.

 

Reasons for Joint Resurfacing

When possible, doctors at Dignity Health North State use joint resurfacing as an alternative to joint replacement. Your doctor may recommend this procedure if you have chronic pain or difficulty with daily activities because of joint stiffness and immobility.

Joint conditions often treated with resurfacing include:

  • Arthritis
  • Rotator cuff problems in the shoulder
  • Traumatic arthritis caused by a fracture
  • Osteoarthritis, caused by normal wear and tear on the joint
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Osteonecrosis, which is the death of bone 

If you’re thinking about joint surgery, ask your doctor if you’re eligible for bone-sparing joint resurfacing, as opposed to total joint replacement.

 

What to Expect: Joint Resurfacing at Dignity Health North State

Similar to a full replacement, joint resurfacing is a major procedure that requires general anesthesia. Depending on the location and extent of the surgery, it may be take place in a hospital setting or at an outpatient surgery center.

The length of the procedure and the size of the incision depends on which joint is being repaired. Since hip resurfacing is more complex than hip replacement, it typically requires a larger incision. Your doctor will go over the details of the surgery, including how to prepare and what to expect. 

Dignity Health North State offers orthopedic surgery at these locations:

Robotic-assisted MAKOplasty is offered as a minimally invasive option for hip resurfacing at St. Elizabeth Community Hospital.

 

Recovery After Joint Resurfacing Surgery

The length of recovery depends on the extent of your procedure, your overall health, age, and other factors specific to you. You’ll likely stay in the hospital for one to four days after joint resurfacing. Your doctor may recommend additional time in a rehabilitation center, depending on your condition.

Once your doctor determines it’s safe for you to go home, you may need crutches or an arm sling to help support your joint while it heals. Physical therapy will be an important part of the healing process. A full recovery from joint resurfacing may take up to 12 weeks.

Your care team is committed to offering personal care with humankindness at every step of your treatment.

Dignity Health North State extends advanced care for joint resurfacing in Mt. Shasta, Red Bluff, and Redding, CA.