Each year, more than 500,000 people undergo total joint replacement surgery. While Flagstaff Medical Center has performed knee and hip replacements for many years, a new program, the Joint Surgery Center, was established in November 2006. This innovative program was created to enhance the experience of total joint patients. On Wednesday, Feb 11, the center celebrated caring for 1,000 joint replacement surgery patients.

The Joint Surgery Center strives to help restore a higher quality of life for those who have total joint replacement surgery by relieving pain, restoring independence and helping patients return to work and other daily activities. The program consists of specially trained nurses, therapists and patient care technicians and an emphasis on group activities. The patient is also encouraged to include a family member or friend as a coach, helping the patient become more motivated and the recovery process to be more effective and quicker.

Patients undergoing total joint replacement have their surgery on the same day as other joint replacement surgery patients, allowing them the opportunity to meet and interact with other patients who have just had the same procedure. Patients are encouraged to share meal time with other patients in our group room, as well as participate in physical therapy and exercise sessions together. Most patients are able to return home after a three-night stay at the hospital.

The program aims to involve patients in their treatment throughout each step of the program thus promoting a healthy outlook during the surgical experience and a unique approach during the healing process. Pre-surgery educational sessions are offered to each patient to inform them about what to expect before surgery, during their hospital stay and after surgery. A comprehensive patient guide is sent home for post-surgery care and rehabilitation, and patients are offered a coordinated after-care program for their final stages of recovery.

For more information about the Spine and Joint Surgery Center, visit FMCJointCenter.com or call 928 214-2812.