Orthopedic specialists recommend joint surgery for elderly parents

Changes in walking patterns, such as slower speeds or frequent resting, may indicate degenerative conditions like knee osteoarthritis or spinal stenosis in elderly individuals. Knee osteoarthritis involves damage to cartilage and meniscus, often causing pain when bending or standing up, and can lead to O-shaped leg deformities. Spinal stenosis occurs when the space around the spinal cord narrows, causing pain that is often relieved by leaning forward.

A survey of 91 orthopedic specialists conducted by Himchan Hospital revealed that 94.5% of respondents would recommend artificial joint replacement surgery to their parents, even if they are over 80 years old. The primary reasons cited include increased life expectancy and advancements in surgical technology and anesthesia.

Specialists noted that delaying surgery when conservative treatments fail can lead to muscle weakness, gait imbalance, and secondary issues in the spine or opposite joints. Furthermore, 80.2% of the surveyed specialists would recommend robotic-assisted surgery for their parents to ensure more precise alignment and minimize soft tissue damage.