Reconstructive surgery of the lower extremity.

Non-operative treatments for degenerative arthritis, such as physiotherapy, anti-inflammatory medication, and occupational therapy, can help reduce the impact of the disease on the joint and hence on the mobility of the patient. Once the joint has become so diseased that non-operative modalities are inadequate, it is the task of the orthopedic surgeon to evaluate these individuals and determine which ones would benefit from a reconstructive procedure. The author explores the indications for arthrotomies, resection arthroplasties, arthrodeses, osteotomies, and total joint replacements. Total joint arthroplasty has revolutionized the treatment of degenerative arthritis of the lower extremity, although it is not a panacea for arthritis in the lower extremity.