Joint Replacement

Why Choose UCLA Health for Joint Replacement Surgery

We focus on hip, knee, shoulder and ankle replacements, performing hundreds of procedures each year. Our experience leads to safer surgeries, smoother recoveries and long-lasting results. We also treat complex cases, including people needing revision surgery and those previously told they weren’t eligible for joint replacement.

Highlights of our program include: 

Legacy of innovation: We have been a leader in joint replacement surgery since 1969, when surgeons performed the first hip arthroplasty at UCLA Health. Our first total knee replacement was in 1977. Decades of experience help us refine techniques, anticipate challenges and deliver exceptional outcomes.

National recognition: Our orthopedic program is consistently ranked among the best in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, based partly on outcomes for hip and knee replacement surgeries. We’ve also been named a Blue Distinction Center® by Blue Shield of California for hip and knee replacement. These honors recognize our commitment to safety, quality and patient satisfaction.

Precision: When only part of a joint is damaged, we may perform a partial replacement, preserving more of your natural anatomy. Whether you need a full or partial replacement, we use targeted devices and techniques that limit disruption to healthy tissue. 

Seamless care: Our team of orthopedic surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses and physical therapists supports you from your first appointment through outpatient rehabilitation. We work together to coordinate your care, from planning your procedure to guiding your recovery. 

Joint Replacement Surgery Consultation 

At your first visit, you get a thorough evaluation with an orthopedic surgeon. They discuss your medical history and symptoms. You also get imaging, such as: 

• X-rays which use radiation to get a clear image of your bones.
• CT scans which use specialized computers and X-rays to create images of your bones and soft tissues.
• MRIs which use magnets and radio waves to create pictures of your bones and soft tissues. 

Your surgeon offers tailored recommendations based on these findings. Usually, we start with nonsurgical treatments, such as physical therapy, medications or injections. We typically recommend joint replacement when you’ve tried noninvasive therapies without significant improvements. Find out more about preparing for your first appointment.

Joint Conditions We Treat

You may benefit from a partial or total joint replacement if you have:

• Osteoarthritis: Joint pain that occurs when the tissue between bones (cartilage) wears away, causing the bones to rub together
• Osteonecrosis (avascular necrosis): Disrupted blood flow to the bones, causing bone tissue to break down and leading to osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis: When the immune system attacks healthy tissue, leading to joint inflammation, swelling and stiffness
• Severe joint injuries: Traumatic injuries, often caused by a fall or accident, that can lead to post-traumatic osteoarthritis
• History of failed arthroplasty: Infected, damaged, loose or improperly positioned implants from a previous joint replacement surgery

Joint Replacements We Offer 

A partial or total joint replacement (arthroplasty) involves removing the damaged portion of the joint or the entire joint and replacing it with artificial parts. Our orthopedic surgeons perform all types of joint replacements, including:

• Ankle replacement
• Hip replacement, including anterior hip replacement
• Knee replacement
• Shoulder replacement

We offer a full range of surgical options and tailor your procedure to reflect your medical needs and long-term goals. Offerings include:

• Joint resurfacing: When damage is limited, we may replace only part of the joint. This could include replacing only one of the knee’s three compartments or just one part of the hip joint.
• Osteotomy: To relieve pressure or correct alignment, surgeons may reposition the bone near a joint. This approach can reduce pain and delay the need for joint replacement.
• Revision surgery: If an existing joint implant wears out, loosens or causes pain, revision surgery replaces or adjusts it. This is more common in patients who received an implant at a younger age since most implants last about 15 to 20 years.
• Total joint replacement: We replace the entire joint with a prosthetic device. This is one of the most common procedures we perform. It’s highly effective at relieving pain and restoring mobility when the entire joint is damaged. 

Meet Our Team 

Our orthopedic surgeons use a wide range of advanced joint replacement techniques. We educate you on your treatment options, creating an individualized plan that offers optimal outcomes. Our surgeons have specific fellowship training in joint replacements, underscoring our expertise in these procedures.