Schluter, Dean

Definitions

A joint is any area where two bones are attached to allow movement of body parts, and is usually formed of fibrous connective tissue and cartilage. Joint replacement surgery, known as arthroplasty, a part of orthopaedic surgery, involves a diseased or damaged joint being removed and replaced with an artificial one (known as a prosthesis). Artificial joints are usually made of metal, ceramic or plastic materials. The most common joint replacements are the hip and knee, along with the shoulder and ankle.moreOrthopaedic surgery is concerned with treating conditions involving the musculoskeletal system, which is made up of bones, joints, ligaments, tendons and muscles. Orthopaedic surgeons use bothsurgical and non-surgical methods to treat a wide range of problems, including trauma (injury), sports injuries, degenerative diseases (e.g. arthritis), infections, tumours and congenital disorders (those present at birth). Various procedures to treat the knee, shoulder and hip are among the most commonly performed surgery.more