Joint Replacement Center

Quick Reference: The Joint Replacement Center
Wake Forest Baptist Health –
Lexington Medical Center
250 Hospital Drive
Lexington, NC 27292
Phone: 336.238.4401

Mission Statement:
The Joint Replacement Center is a separate unit of Lexington Medical Center that offers a comprehensive program dedicated to joint replacement surgery and rehabilitation. The Center offers patient education, standardized protocols, and a specialized healthcare delivery team, all in a wellness environment. This collaborative effort between the staff of Lexington Medical Center and the physicians will provide the kind of quality and comprehensive care that allows joint replacement patients to return to active lifestyles as quickly and safely as possible.

The Joint Replacement Center is a dedicated area of Lexington Medical Center used solely for the postoperative care and recovery of joint replacement patients. Patients preparing for knee, hip, and shoulder replacement surgery will attend an education program with their families at The Joint Replacement Center prior to their surgery. There they will meet the members of the joint replacement medical team. The joint replacement medical team includes physicians, nurses, physical and occupational therapists, and case managers. The Joint Replacement Center staff members do not rotate through, but are dedicated to the Center and are specially trained in joint replacement procedures.

All joint replacement surgeries are performed on Mondays and Tuesdays of each week, and patients are transitioned back to their homes on Thursdays and Fridays. The Joint Replacement Center is usually closed for the weekend with the next group of patients admitted the following Monday.

Protocols for nursing care, antibiotic therapy, prevention of deep venous thrombosis, pain control, physical therapy, and occupational therapy have all been standardized to provide seamless care and to keep patients as safe and comfortable as possible.

Patients experience a level of camaraderie when they go through the rehabilitation process as a group. This group interaction promotes better clinical outcomes. Family support is also encouraged during the acute care process. During the recovery process, patients are encouraged to wear comfortable, casual clothing and to be as active as possible.

Meet Our Doctors:
George A. Azar, MD
Karl E. Bolstad, MD
Gordon C. Kammire, MD
J. Simmons Riggan, III, MD