Arthritis Management
Surgical Intervention
These recommendations are presented in abbreviated form. Readers should refer to the text of the guideline document1 for a detailed discussion of each of the following topics.
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For optimal functional results, people with disabling arthritis should be referred for surgical care prior to the onset of joint contracture, severe deformity, and advanced muscular wasting and deconditioning rather than as a last resort. (B)
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Unless there are medical contraindications, most people with arthritis, including obese and older persons, should be referred for surgical treatment when noninvasive treatment is ineffective and function is impaired. (B)
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Surgical intervention should be considered when pain and functional limitations prevent the minimum amount of activity recommended by the U.S. Surgeon General (30 minutes of exercise on most days of the week to maintain cardiovascular health). (B)
References:
1. Available at: http://www.guidelines.gov/ and originally adapted from: Simon LS, Lipman AG, Jacox AK et al Pain in osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and juvenile chronic arthritis.2nd ed. Glenview (IL): American Pain Society (APS); 2002. 179 p. (Clinical practice guideline; no. 2).