Pompton Plains Each year, nearly 800,000 people undergo hip and knee replacement surgery, the most common joint replacements performed in the United States. The damaged joint is removed and exchanged for an artificial one that restores range of motion while relieving pain. For those in need of joint replacement, a new, state-of-the-art inpatient orthopedic unit is available right in the community. Chilton Hospital announced its completion of the $2.5 million Total Joint Center. It is the first inpatient unit transformed as part of Chilton Hospital’s $24 million renovation project. The Total Joint Center offers a unique, customized program for patients receiving all types of joint replacement, as well as other orthopedic procedures. Its 24 private patient rooms are all warmly decorated with natural color tones and wood accents. All rooms provide the comforts of home including: Flat screen TVs Wireless Internet access Sleepers for loved ones who wish to spend the night Ample seating and closet space Expanded en suite bathrooms, designed specifically for wheelchair and walker access “Adding to the personalized experience, patients are greeted each morning with a customized newsletter, much like a cruise ship itinerary, summarizing their daily goals and agenda,” explained Joint Care Coordinator Christine Apkarian, RN, BSN. “Patients and their coaches are encouraged to attend our pre-operative total hip and total knee replacement education classes. We cover everything from pre-admission testing through hospitalization and rehabilitation in order to prepare them for their journey back to regained mobility. We have an extensive rehabilitation program including physical and occupational therapists, who offer an individualized therapy approach.” The Total Joint Center also boasts a high-tech rehabilitation gym, outfitted with top-of-the-line orthopedic equipment, as well as plans for an outdoor patio for patients and guests to enjoy. “Aside from our exclusive approach to personalized care, our commitment to excellence sets us apart from other centers,” said Total Joint Center Medical Director David Gold, MD. “We’ve assembled an experienced team of orthopedic specialists, including board-certified surgeons, highly trained nurses and licensed therapists who are all dedicated to providing an unparalleled level of care.” He added that Castle Connolly Medical Ltd., a leading health care research firm, stated that doctors across the state ranked Chilton Hospital as number one for hip and knee replacement among New Jersey hospitals in its size. Most joint replacement patients are discharged within a few days, though healing will continue in the weeks and months to come. Chilton’s Total Joint Center staff offers continued guidance and support along the road to recovery. Patients will receive a “congratulatory dessert” the night before they are discharged, so they can celebrate this significant milestone with a special guest and kick-off the next phase of rehabilitation. To ensure a seamless continuum of care, Chilton offers two outpatient rehabilitation facilities conveniently located in Pompton Plains and Wayne. Both centers are staffed by licensed physical therapists and equipped with the latest advancements in orthopedic rehabilitation, including therapy pools and training gyms. Every resource necessary to regain mobility and complete recuperation is available. For a physician referral, call 1-888-CHILTON. For more information about Chilton’s Total Joint Center, call Joint Care Coordinator Christine Apkarian at 973-831-5000 ext 5645 or visit www.totaljointcenter.org.