Why Can't We Just Replace Cartilage? Understanding Why Joint Replacement Is Sometimes Necessary

Is Partial Hip Replacement Like Partial Knee Replacement?

Many patients have heard of partial knee replacements and wonder if a partial hip replacement is an option for arthritis as well. In this episode clip, Dr. Grayson Connors discusses one of the most common misconceptions in hip surgery: the difference between a partial hip replacement and a total hip replacement. We cover: • What a partial hip replacement (hemiarthroplasty) actually replaces • Why partial hip replacements are typically used for hip fractures rather than arthritis • The key differences between replacing only the femoral head versus replacing both the ball and socket • How age, mobility, arthritis, and overall health influence surgical decision-making • Why many surgeons are increasingly choosing total hip replacement for active fracture patients Dr. Connors also explains how advances in modern hip replacement techniques have made total hip replacement an attractive option for many patients who historically would have received a partial hip replacement. If you've ever wondered why one patient receives a partial hip replacement while another receives a total hip replacement, this conversation breaks down the reasoning behind those decisions. Subscribe to The Joint Replacement Podcast for expert discussions on hip replacement, knee replacement, arthritis treatment, robotics, recovery, and the future of orthopedic surgery.

Joint Replacement Myths, Recovery, Robotics & the Future of Hip and Knee Replacement with Blair Ashley, MD | Episode 24

In Episode 24 of The Joint Replacement Podcast, Dr. Matthew Sloan is joined by fellowship-trained joint replacement surgeon Dr. Blair Ashley for an in-depth discussion on modern hip and knee replacement surgery. They explore when patients should consider surgery, how long implants last, the role of injections and biologic treatments, realistic recovery expectations, returning to sports, and how patients can choose the right surgeon. The conversation also covers robotic surgery, partial knee replacement, outpatient joint replacement, infection prevention, and the future of arthritis treatment. Dr. Ashley shares her insights on what separates excellent surgeons from great ones and why patient expectations play such an important role in successful outcomes. If you're considering a hip or knee replacement—or simply want to better understand the field of joint replacement—this episode offers practical guidance and expert perspectives from two experienced adult reconstruction surgeons.

Hip Replacement Recovery: The First 48 Hours

The first 48 hours after hip replacement can set the tone for the entire recovery. In this episode of The Joint Replacement Podcast, Dr. Matthew Sloan explains what patients should focus on during the first two days after surgery, including early standing, safe movement, ankle pumps, pain control, and protecting the incision. You’ll learn why same-day mobilization matters, how ankle pumps help circulation, why staying ahead of pain is important, and how small early decisions can reduce complications and build confidence.

Dr. Michael Kheir on Robotics, Implant Selection, Revision Surgery & the Future of Joint Replacement

In Episode 21, Dr. Matthew Sloan interviews Dr. Michael Kheir, orthopedic surgeon, Director of Research, and Assistant Professor at the University of Michigan. Dr. Kheir discusses the innovations transforming modern hip and knee replacement, including robotic-assisted surgery, advanced implant designs, cemented versus cementless fixation, and strategies for improving patient outcomes through education and expectation management. The conversation also explores some of the most difficult problems in arthroplasty—including prosthetic joint infection, severe bone loss, and complex revision surgery—as well as emerging technologies that may change how surgeons manage these complications in the future. Key topics include: • How long hip and knee replacements last • Triple-tapered collared hip stems • Cemented vs cementless implants • Robotic-assisted hip replacement surgery • Anterior vs posterior hip approaches • Patient education and recovery expectations • Joint replacement infection research • Revision hip and knee replacement surgery • The future of arthroplasty innovation A thoughtful discussion for patients considering joint replacement and surgeons interested in the rapidly evolving field of adult reconstruction.

Episode 21: Dr. Grayson Connors — Robotics, Anterior Hip Replacement, Jiffy Knee & Faster Recovery

Dr. Matthew Sloan welcomes Grayson Connors to Episode 21 of The Joint Replacement Podcast. Dr. Connors discusses robotic-assisted knee replacement, anterior hip replacement, outpatient joint replacement surgery, modern recovery protocols, and how AI is beginning to influence orthopedic care. The conversation covers: * Robotic vs manual knee replacement * VELYS robotics and precision surgery * The Jiffy Knee technique * Outpatient and same-day joint replacement * Hip fracture treatment and partial vs total hip replacement * Recovery timelines after hip and knee replacement * Returning to sports and exercise * Implant longevity and revision surgery * Patient optimization before surgery * The future of AI and orthopedic innovation A practical and engaging discussion for patients, caregivers, and orthopedic professionals looking to better understand where joint replacement surgery is heading next. 🎙️ The Joint Replacement Podcast — Helping patients understand hip and knee replacement and the surgeons who perform it.