What’s causing the rise in younger patients needing such procedures? Dr. Tomas Kadusauskas, a surgeon at Nordorthopaedics Clinic in Kaunas, Lithuania, explains the various factors behind this trend, as well as the risks, long term impact, and alternatives of such surgeries earlier in life.
Global statistics reveal a growing trend of younger patients, particularly those in their 40s, undergoing knee and hip replacement surgeries. Contributing factors include active lifestyles, rising obesity rates, and advancements in medical technology that make these surgeries more accessible. However, understanding the risks, alternatives, and long-term implications is crucial.
Hip and joint replacement operations are generally considered to be for people of an advanced age after decades of use and stress. But global statistics are showing a growing trend of younger patients receiving such surgeries. The American Academy of Orthopedics reported that 28% of hip replacement surgeries are performed on people younger than 55. By 2030, more than half of all hip replacements will be on people under age 65.
Active…and inactive lifestyles lead to wear and tear
Younger adults tend to be physically active, exercising often and participating in more physical contact sports. According to Dr. Kadusauskas, this can lead to early joint damage and injury. Naturally, that can sometimes mean having to operate.
On the other hand, the less active, including the obese and those with metabolic conditions, will also experience joint degeneration as a result of increased body weight. With obesity on the rise, this has also meant a rise in demand for replacement surgery in younger demographics.
An increase in availability and precision
“Joint replacement procedures are now more accessible, with shorter wait times and wider insurance coverage,” explains Dr. Kadusauskas. And this rise in ubiquity has coincided with rapid improvements in material and techniques, providing better long-term results.
For instance, modern implants made of polyethylene, ceramic, and coated titanium provide better and longer durability. Advanced imaging and templating techniques allow for precise implant positioning, which reduces complications and improves long-term outcomes. A strong focus on post-op physiotherapy ensures patients regain strength, stability, and mobility, preventing implant overload and reducing long-term wear.
Muscle strength and joint balance are critical for long-term success. And since younger people are less likely to live with pain and limited movement, they’ve begun opting for surgery earlier in life, rather than endure prolonged pain.
Risks–and how to prevent them
Of course, no surgery is without risk or complications. For younger patients, there is a chance that the implants will wear out and require another surgery, since younger, more active patients place more stress on the implants. More years of use can also increase the risk of the implant loosening or failing over time. With their longer lifespans, younger patients also carry a higher risk of infection. On top of all that, replacement surgeries can weaken the bone.
According to Dr. Kadusauskas, to avoid early implant failure, patients are encouraged to partake in low-impact activities and schedule regular check-ups. Infections can be mitigated through more meticulous surgical techniques and use of preventive antibiotics. As for potential bone loss, the best way to prevent that is to delay surgery when possible, and to use bone-preserving techniques.
Alternatives to surgery
Surgery may be more available than ever and improving quickly, but it’s not always necessary. Patients with joint pain have a variety of alternatives to consider, including cortisone injections, physiotherapy, arthroscopy, and medication. How can a patient know when to elect for surgery?
Dr. Kadusauskas presents a simple litmus test to answer this query: “Does your joint pain alter your daily life?” In other words, if your pain is interfering with walking, working, or even sleeping, and other treatments are not providing relief, then joint replacement may be the best option.
Additionally, joint replacement will provide the best outcome with certain conditions, including severe osteoarthritis, avascular necrosis, post-traumatic arthritis, and advanced rheumatoid arthritis. If imaging shows advanced joint damage, surgery should definitely be considered.
Nevertheless, Nordorthopaedics will always recommend the least invasive treatment for joint pain whenever possible. The goal, after all, is not just to replace a joint but to restore function in a way that ensures the best long-term quality of life.
As Dr. Kadusauskas said, “Achieving the best long-term outcomes in joint replacement isn’t just about performing the surgery—it’s about a well-planned approach before, during, and after the procedure.”
Source: Nordorthopaedics Clinic
Image: Dr. Tomas Kadusauskas, a surgeon at Nordorthopaedics Clinic. Credit: Nordorthopaedics Clinic
