The human body goes through a lot over a lifetime. As people mature, the need for medical intervention increases in most cases. Some are fortunate enough to only need minor treatment as they get older, but many need more significant procedures to sustain their health and wellbeing.
Although many surgeries are common in geriatric care, there is still room for error. Mistakes made by healthcare professionals can leave them open to a medical negligence claim. However, these circumstances are rare and the majority are completed without issue. In this article, we outline some of the more common surgeries and procedures for over 50s.
Cataract removal
One of the most common procedures for older patients is cataract removal. This surgery aims to remove the lens of the eye if it’s become clouded and decreased your visibility. An artificial lens is then installed to reinstate your vision. The procedure typically has a high success rate and relatively low risk.
Hip replacement
Human joints take a lot of impact over the course of a lifetime. Hips are some of the most susceptible to damage and pain, which is why replacement surgeries are so common for those over 50. The damaged hip joint is replaced by a prosthetic implant to hopefully restore mobility and pain-free movement that may have been lost with age.
Pacemaker implantation
Normal functioning of the heart is so important for health and vitality. When this functioning is disrupted, the heartbeat can become too fast or slow, or stop altogether. Fitting a pacemaker helps to regulate your heartbeat to prevent complications that could cause death.
The device is implanted into your chest and delivers electrical impulses to control your heart’s rhythm when needed. It’s a procedure that’s helped to save many people from cardiac arrest and prolong the life of heart failure patients.
Knee replacement
Another of the most overworked joints is the knee. Decades of walking, running and activity can cause osteoarthritis which creates pain and stiffness. A replacement is usually the procedure recommended if lifestyle changes and minor treatments haven’t made a difference.
The damaged knee joint, or parts of it, are replaced with plastic or metal prosthetics. Successful operations can greatly improve mobility and independence. It’s one of the more invasive procedures, often taking months to fully recover.
These are some of the more common surgeries and procedures carried out predominantly for older patients. They can drastically improve a person’s quality of life, whether it be increasing mobility, restoring clear vision or prolonging life.