Joint Replacement Surgery

If you have a joint that’s painful, weak, damaged, or deformed, the experts at Belongie Orthopedics in Clearwater, Florida, can help. Board-certified orthopedic surgeon Duane Belongie, MD, and his expert staff offer joint replacement surgery using the cutting-edge Mako SmartRobotics™. Call the office to learn more or use the online booking feature today.

What is joint replacement surgery?

Joint replacement surgery at Belongie Orthopedics replaces part or all of a damaged joint with artificial components. Dr. Belongie has many years of experience completing joint replacement for the hip, knee, shoulder, and other joints. He uses state-of-the-art robotics technology to ensure exceptional precision and accuracy.

Is joint replacement surgery right for me?

You may be a candidate for joint replacement surgery if you struggle with age-related wear-and-tear, arthritis, or have a serious injury and ongoing pain because of it.

Dr. Belongie lets you know if you’re a candidate after discussing your symptoms, lifestyle, and medical history with you. He checks your vital signs, completes a physical exam, and evaluates the affected joint.

Dr. Belongie may order X-rays, heart-function testing, lab tests, an MRI, a CT scan, or another imaging procedure to diagnose your condition and treat it properly.

How should I prepare for my surgery?

It’s important to follow all of your pre-surgery instructions before undergoing joint replacement surgery. If asked by Dr. Belongie, you might need to stop taking certain medications and avoid foods and drinks the morning of the scheduled procedure. Arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery.

What should I expect during joint replacement surgery?

Before joint replacement surgery, you receive anesthesia to numb the treatment area and make you feel relaxed or fall asleep.

Dr. Belongie uses Mako SmartRobotics to make tiny incisions, remove diseased or damaged joints, and replace the joints with sturdy synthetic materials. The procedure could last about two hours, but every patient is different. Dr. Belongie then closes the incisions and lets you rest in a recovery area.

What happens after the procedure?

After undergoing joint replacement surgery, you may be able to go home the same day. Have a family member or friend drive you home and stay with you. Ice the treatment area, wear a brace or sling if asked to, and take medications as directed by Dr. Belongie. Attend physical therapy sessions and follow-up visits with him to maximize your recovery.

Replaced joints may last 15 years or longer* when cared for properly. Avoid completing certain high-impact activities if Dr. Belongie recommends it.

To learn more about joint replacement surgery at Belongie Orthopedics and find out if it’s right for you, call the office or use the online booking feature today.

*Individual results may vary