Joint Replacements

[tearinghair]

How long should a hip and/or knee replacement last these days? I know in the past there was a sort-of time limit after which it would have to be done again; does that still apply? I've been advised that this would be the next stage for me (though not quite yet).

[bednobs]

it really depends on the type, skill of surgeon etc, plus also how old you were when you had it done (younger more active people put more wear and tear on them

[tearinghair]

I'm 70, bednobs (and you have no idea how difficult it was for me to say that!)

[bednobs]

its really difficult to say. Sqad, a poster on here was saying the other day he's had his for 20+ years no problems (hips)

[Buenchico]

Quote:
"Nowadays, most hip implants last for 20 years or more. If you are older, your new hip may last your lifetime. If you are younger, you may need another new hip at some point"

Source:
http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Hip-replacement/Pages/Recovery.aspx

The information about knee replacements is vaguer:
"The knee can be replaced as often as necessary, although results tend to be slightly less effective each time. Recovery may take longer, but once you have recovered, results are usually good"

http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Knee-replacement/Pages/Recovery.aspx

(Click the black links at the top of those two pages for lots more information)

[pixie373]

I have a client who had a hip replacement at 60. He was told it would last ten years. He's now 98. And no problems yet :-)

[cupotee]

I have 2 new knee's. The first was done in Jan 2000, so 13 years. The second 2008. Both are still in fine working order.

I also have a replacement hip 2007 and 2 replacement shoulders one 2001, the other 2003.

Replacing joints for me has been wonderful.

[tearinghair]

Thanks everyone, that's very encouraging. I shall think positively about it (eventually!)

[Sqad]

bednobs is correct, the lifespan of a hip replacement is much better than a hip and depends upon the skill off the surgeon and the type of prosthesis.

The first, Charnley prosthesis is still working perfectly in patients 30 years on........that is for a hip.

I have bilateral Charnley's and I am symptom free 30 years on......done at Wrightington ( home of hip replacements).......by mates of mine who were trained by John Charnley.

[Sqad]

Sorry ..should have said" hip replacement better than a knee replacement.

[Scarlett]

I'm 43 and need new knees, but they are rather reluctant to help as I am deemed too young. I would much rather have 10-15 years of better mobility now though, than having no life and being able to walk around when I'm 55.

[tearinghair]

Thanks again to all. I'd have to go down the NHS route, so no chance of Wrightington, Sqad. But no decision necessary for a little while yet.

[Sqad]

tearing........Wrightington IS NHS as well as private.

[tearinghair]

I didn't realise that. Thanks, Sqad.