Knee replacement timing is all wrong for most patients

(Northwestern University) The timing of knee replacement surgery is critical to optimize its benefit. But 90% of patients with knee osteoarthritis who would potentially benefit from knee replacement are waiting too long to have it and getting less benefit, reports a new study. In addition, about 25% of patients who don't need it are having it prematurely when the benefit is minimal, the study found. African-Americans delayed knee replacement surgery more than Caucasians.
Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science - Category: International Medicine & Public Health Source Type: news