Welcome to your monthly dose of health and wellness information. Each month, we'll dive into practical tips, evidence-based advice and the latest developments in different fields of medicine.

Mass General Brigham physicians have had the privilege of caring for thousands of Bermudian patients in Boston over the years, spanning a wide variety of conditions and complexities.

As Bermuda’s population ages and more people look to stay active, whether that means walking comfortably or enjoying a round of golf, joint health is becoming an increasingly important topic. This month, we look at the latest developments in hip and knee replacement surgery, and how they are improving outcomes for patients worldwide, with Dr Jeffrey Lange, orthopaedic surgeon at Mass General Brigham.

Joint replacement surgery seems increasingly common. Is it, and why?

Yes, more and more hip and knee replacements are being done every year. In part, it is because our surgical techniques have improved over time, and the implants are lasting longer, broadening the range of patients for whom it can be beneficial. Plus, in some parts of the world, like Bermuda, the number of older individuals is increasing, so more people require joint replacements every year.

What are the most important advancements over the past decade?

A few of the most significant advancements in joint replacement surgery over the last decade have been improved rehabilitation pathways and technologies that improve surgical precision. Patients are mobilising more quickly after surgery, rehabilitation has become more streamlined, and patients are getting back to normal life more easily and in some cases more quickly than ever before.

What role is robotic-assisted surgery playing today?

Robotics has been an incredible innovation in joint replacement surgery. Robotics has become more widely utilised in recent years. While we have not yet proven a definitive long term benefit, it is clear that robotics improves surgical precision, and we hope that this may lead to improved surgical recoveries and longer lasting implants over time.

How has recovery improved compared with the past?

Recoveries after joint replacement tend to be much faster and more comfortable now than in years past. Now, many patients go home on the day of surgery, and the vast majority are home within the first 24 hours.

If you would like to request an appointment or learn more about care at Mass General Brigham, contact our international patient services team at patientcare@mgb.org or visit MassGeneralBrigham.org/Bermuda. If part of your care planning includes insurance, we recommend speaking with your insurance company before requesting an appointment