​What kinds of symptoms do patients experience before receiving treatment?

An arthroplasty is performed when a joint is destroyed, causing severe pain and difficulty walking. Joints may become damaged through fracture, trauma, degenerative joint disease, or congenital hip dysplasia. Other possible reasons include conditions developed during growth, such as Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, slipped capital femoral epiphysis, and avascular necrosis.

​What is the impact on patients’ lives of living with these conditions?

When patients have destroyed joints, they experience pain and are immobile. This typically prevents them from working and supporting their families.

What cultural or regional factors affect the treatment of these conditions?

Traffic accidents are a leading cause of disability and death in Cambodia. Cambodian roads are in poor condition, and drivers are rarely safe. Fractures, dislocations, and trauma from traffic accidents are not uncommon in Cambodia.

What does the treatment process look like?

In order to replace a destroyed joint, surgeons must completely remove it. An incision is made over the affected joint, and dissection is carefully performed down to the bone. A saw is then used to carefully cut the ends of the joint away. The deformed, arthritic bone is removed. In some cases, an artificial metal prosthesis is then fitted to the ends of the bone and secured. A plastic bearing is then placed between the two metal ends of the joint so that the joint can move with low friction. The wound is closed. The patient will typically receive physical therapy, teaching him or her range of motion exercises and strengthening techniques.

What is the impact of this treatment on the patient’s life?

The patient is able to walk without pain and can return to work to support his or her family.

What potential side effects or risks come with this treatment?

Surgery always carries a risk of a death, but such a complication is very unlikely. This surgery is highly successful.

How accessible is treatment in the area? What is the typical journey like for a patient to receive care?

Surgical treatment is not easily accessible in rural Cambodia. In cities, it is too expensive for many patients to afford. Patients travel anywhere from 30 minutes to eight hours to reach Children's Surgical Centre (CSC) for treatment. They learn about CSC from family members or neighbors who have received treatment there. They travel with their family members via motorcycle or taxi.

What are the alternatives to this treatment?

Patients seek Khmer traditional medicine. They visit local healers, who provide topical and consumable treatment that is often not effective.