RWJUH Somerset Hosts Joint Surgery Reunion Dinner

Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital (RWJUH) Somerset's Joint Surgery Program recently held a reunion dinner for patients who had hip or knee replacement surgery at the hospital in the past year. The event reunited patients and their caregivers, including Stephen Kayiaros, MD, medical director, RWJUH Somerset's Joint Surgery Program; Swapna Kandathil, RN, joint surgery coordinator; nurses and physical and occupational therapists.

Patients shared how their surgeries improved their quality of life, allowing them to return to work and care for their grandchildren as well as getting back to their favorite activities such as riding horses and bowling.

"I got my life back," said one patient who had bilateral hip replacement surgery at the hospital earlier this year.

"We were so inspired to see how well our patients have been doing since they left the hospital," said Kandathil, a certified orthopedic nurse who facilitates all aspects of patients' care. "It was amazing to hear what a difference surgery has made in their lives."

RWJUH Somerset's Joint Surgery Program was recognized by U.S. News & World Report in its 2024 hospital ratings as a "high performing" hospital for hip replacement surgery. It was also honored by Healthgrades with a five-star rating for hip fracture repair and has received the Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval for total hip and total knee replacement surgery.

The hospital recently completed construction on a new vertical expansion with 45 all-private patient rooms, including rooms dedicated for patients who have had joint replacement surgery. The new floor will also include a therapy gym.

RWJUH Somerset's Joint Surgery Program offers a comprehensive approach to care, including pre-operative education, rehabilitation that begins on the day of surgery, an opioid-free pain relief system and a joint care coordinator. The program's nurses and therapists are specially trained in caring for patients who have undergone total knee or hip surgery.

Among its surgical services is the anterior approach to total hip replacement surgery, a tissue-sparing alternative to traditional hip replacement surgery that provides the potential for less pain, faster recovery and improved mobility.

The hospital offers physical therapy services on-site as well as at four other locations in Bridgewater, Flemington, Hillsborough and Princeton.

For more information about joint replacement surgery at RWJUH Somerset, visit rwjbh.org/somerset.