Summary
This article highlights some of the concerns regarding the economy and utilization of surgical implants. While patients may defer total hip and knee surgery, they will ultimately undergo surgery for pain relief and restoration of function. The number of baby boomers with arthritis will increase the surgical volume. Insurance continues to cover the cost of surgery for the majority of patients.
Analysis
The recent economic crisis will have an impact on the delivery of health care however when it comes to total hip and knee replacement surgery, patients may defer their surgery but will ultimately undergo these procedures. The reason for this is that a symptomatic arthritic hip and knee are disabling conditions, limiting functional activities. Patients are looking for pain relief and resumption of their daily activities without limitations and most implant costs are covered by insurance. In addition with the large number of baby boomers coming of age with arthritis, the surgical volume will continue to grow. This is an active population who want to be able to continue their active lifestyle without the pain. What also needs to be considered is the rise in revision arthroplasty. The other issue that will come into play is that hospitals are cautious about capital investments at this time, as well as the profitability of joint replacement surgery, and are looking for discount pricing. Device manufacturers will have to respond to this situation and be competitive.
