Weight Loss Surgery May Benefit Total Joint Arthroplasty Patients
When serious joint problems and concerns about obesity are both present, researchers say addressing one concern before the other can have a positive impact on the overall outcome. Studies have found that patients who are obese and require total joint arthroplasty tend to fare better following replacement surgery if they’ve undergone bariatric surgery first.
One of the more recent studies that dove into the benefits of losing weight before undergoing joint replacement involved more than 5,000 morbidly obese patients who needed total joint replacement surgery. About half the group underwent bariatric surgery first while the other half did not. A small group of less than 2,000 patients who needed hip replacement surgery were also studied, as well. Researchers ultimately found that patients who addressed weight first had significantly lowered complication rates following replacement surgery. They also reported increased quality of life following both procedures while also enjoying increased life expectancy.
Bariatric surgical procedures, such as the gastric bypass, have been proven to have a number of positive health benefits. In addition to lowering risks for seriously life-limiting diseases like cancer and heart disease, losing weight can reduce stress and strain on the joints and musculoskeletal system. This in and of itself can be beneficial prior to total joint or hip replacement to help promote less stress during healing.
Obesity is estimated to be a concern for about a third of the American population. With men, women and children alike all suffering from this condition, it has reached an epidemic proportion. Taking positive steps to address weight can reduce the risks of serious health complications while producing a variety of other benefits. People who undergo weight loss surgery often report such positive effects as increased stamina, improved mobility, better sleep and a reduction in musculoskeletal pain, among others.
People who are obese are urged to talk to their healthcare providers. Losing weight can and often does dramatically improve health.
One of the more recent studies that dove into the benefits of losing weight before undergoing joint replacement involved more than 5,000 morbidly obese patients who needed total joint replacement surgery. About half the group underwent bariatric surgery first while the other half did not. A small group of less than 2,000 patients who needed hip replacement surgery were also studied, as well. Researchers ultimately found that patients who addressed weight first had significantly lowered complication rates following replacement surgery. They also reported increased quality of life following both procedures while also enjoying increased life expectancy.
Bariatric surgical procedures, such as the gastric bypass, have been proven to have a number of positive health benefits. In addition to lowering risks for seriously life-limiting diseases like cancer and heart disease, losing weight can reduce stress and strain on the joints and musculoskeletal system. This in and of itself can be beneficial prior to total joint or hip replacement to help promote less stress during healing.
Obesity is estimated to be a concern for about a third of the American population. With men, women and children alike all suffering from this condition, it has reached an epidemic proportion. Taking positive steps to address weight can reduce the risks of serious health complications while producing a variety of other benefits. People who undergo weight loss surgery often report such positive effects as increased stamina, improved mobility, better sleep and a reduction in musculoskeletal pain, among others.
People who are obese are urged to talk to their healthcare providers. Losing weight can and often does dramatically improve health.
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