If the pain or disability caused by arthritis cannot be controlled by a change in lifestyle or by painkillers, there may be a case for an operation. The surgeon will consider whether the patient's social, domestic or professional life is affected by the condition, and whether independence is threatened. There are two objectives when using surgery - to reduce pain and improve the function of the joint. Understanding what the surgery will do for you will be easier if you have a good idea of the structure of joints. A joint is a place in the body where two bones come together.
Ligaments are fibrous cords that attach bones to bones.
Tendons are like ligaments except they connect muscles to bones. The tissue lining the joints is called the synovium. In conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, the synovium becomes inflamed. This inflammation releases chemicals that, over the years, will enlarge or thicken the synovium and damage the cartilage and bone of the affected joints. Inflammation of the synovium causes pain and swelling.