For many people suffering from chronic joint pain,
traditional joint replacement surgery might seem like the only option. But what
if there was a procedure that could regenerate your own joint instead?
Distraction arthroplasty offers a promising alternative, particularly for
younger patients.

What is Distraction Arthroplasty?


Unlike traditional joint replacement, distraction
arthroplasty doesn’t involve removing the damaged joint entirely. Instead,
surgeons strategically create a small gap within the bone near the affected
joint. This gap is slowly widened over several days using an external fixator
device. This gradual distraction stimulates the body’s natural healing
processes, encouraging new cartilage to grow within the gap.

Benefits of Distraction Arthroplasty


  • Preserves
    natural joint:     Compared to joint replacement, distraction arthroplasty
    offers the potential to preserve your own joint, which can lead to greater
    flexibility and range of motion in the long run.
  • Reduced
    risk of complications:     Because it avoids implanting artificial
    components, distraction arthroplasty may carry a lower risk of infection
    and loosening that can occur with traditional replacements.
  • Potentially
    faster recovery:     Studies suggest that patients undergoing distraction
    arthroplasty may experience a quicker recovery time compared to joint
    replacement surgery.

Who is a Candidate for Distraction Arthroplasty?

This procedure is typically recommended for younger, active
individuals with moderate joint damage caused by conditions like arthritis or
injuries. It’s important to consult with an orthopaedic surgeon to determine if
distraction arthroplasty is the right option for you.

Limitations of Distraction Arthroplasty


  • Lengthy
    procedure:     The gradual distraction process can take several weeks,
    requiring an external fixator to be worn during this time.
  • Not
    suitable for all cases:     The extent of joint damage can limit the
    effectiveness of this procedure. This may result in necessity of an alternative.
  • Limited
    availability:     Distraction arthroplasty is a relatively new procedure,
    and surgeons with expertise in this technique may not be widely available.

Distraction arthroplasty offers a promising alternative
for certain patients seeking to avoid traditional joint replacement. While it
may not be suitable for everyone, this innovative technique has the potential
to regenerate joints and improve quality of life.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational
purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Please consult
with Dr Slater to discuss your individual circumstances.

For more information about distraction arthroplasty, read this article by Mayo Clinic https://www.mayoclinic.org/documents/mc2024-1012-pdf/doc-20078938