In Germany, the number of joint replacement surgeries is increasing from year to year. This particularly affects the endoprosthetics of the hip and knee. The higher life expectancy, the desire for a high quality of life in old age, and the improved surgical techniques contribute significantly to this increase. However, can the healthcare system's capacities keep pace with this boom, or are we facing a medical and social 'tsunami'?

This article highlights the predicted development of joint replacement in Germany and analyzes its causes, challenges, and possible solutions.

Facts and Statistics: The Current Situation in Joint Replacement

Hip Endoprosthetics:

• In 2021, around 240,000 hip prostheses were implanted in Germany.
• A large proportion of patients suffer from coxarthrosis (hip joint arthrosis), a progressive degenerative disease.

Knee endoprosthetics:

• Approximately 190,000 knee replacements are performed annually. Gonarthrosis (knee joint arthrosis) is the most common reason for these operations.

Demographic change:

• By 2050, an increase of up to 30% in endoprosthetic interventions is expected, mainly due to the aging population.
• The number of people over 65 is expected to make up around 30% of the total population as early as 2040.

Causes of the predicted increase in joint replacement surgeries

Demographic development

The increasing aging of society is the most important driver for the rise in surgeries. With age, the likelihood of degenerative joint diseases increases, which are often only alleviated by joint replacement.

Lifestyle factors

• Obesity: Excess weight is a significant risk factor for the development of osteoarthritis.
• Sports activities: An active lifestyle is healthy, but excessive stress can damage the joints.

Medical progress

• Improved surgical techniques and longer-lasting implants lead to higher acceptance of the procedures.
• Minimally invasive procedures reduce risks and shorten rehabilitation time.

Challenges due to the increase in joint replacement surgeries

Burden on the healthcare system

• Staff shortage: Even today, there are bottlenecks in care and surgical staff.
• Cost explosion: The increase in interventions will burden the statutory health insurance contributions.

Supply bottlenecks

• Waiting times for joint replacement surgeries could rise significantly.
• Specialized centers could become overloaded.

Implant supply and manufacturer overload

Implant manufacturers must meet the growing demand while ensuring high quality standards are maintained.

Advances and innovations in hip and knee prostheses

Materials of the Future

• New materials like ceramic-coated implants improve durability.
• Lightweight materials reduce the mechanical stress on the surrounding tissue.

Digitalization and robotics in endoprosthetics

• Robot-assisted procedures enable more precise interventions.
• Artificial intelligence improves diagnostics and surgical planning.

Patient-Specific Implants

Implants tailored to the patient's anatomy increase the chances of success.

Prognosis for joint replacement in Germany: 'The Tsunami'?

The increasing demand can be compared to a tsunami, as it has cross-systemic effects. But while the challenge is great, there are numerous opportunities for adaptation:

• Capacity increase: Expansion of specialized centers.
• Promoting Prevention: Enhanced education can reduce the risk of arthritis.
• Internationalization: Cooperation with international experts and centers.

Concrete Measures to Manage the Increasing Demand

Expansion of specialized care centers Institutions like the Endoprotheticum Mainz can serve as a blueprint, as they offer high standards and specialized expertise in endoprosthetics.

Promoting innovation Investments in new technologies and materials need to be intensified.

More Attractive Working Conditions Only through better remuneration and working conditions can the shortage of skilled personnel be addressed in the long term.

Conclusion

The rise in joint replacement in Germany is an inevitable development. However, with the right investments in prevention, innovation, and infrastructure, the "tsunami" can be mastered. Specialized facilities like the Endoprotheticum in Mainz show that specialized and patient-oriented care is the key to managing the growing demand.