The Joint Replacement Institute is a leading clinical and basic science research center. Our physicians and research scientists closely monitor and study the clinical performance of various joint replacement devices and procedures. They rely extensively upon patient compliance with the Institute’s follow-up protocols and participation in studies to ensure that research data is accurate and comprehensive. Their ultimate goal is to improve the long term durability of joint replacement devices.
The "Willed Joint" program is an extremely important facet of this research. Patients are asked to donate their joint replacement to JRI for medical research in the event of death. Studying implants retrieved at death enables our researchers to analyze a "successful" device and compare these devices to "failed" devices retrieved at time of revision surgery. We recognize that this can be a difficult or unpleasant subject for many patients to discuss. We will, of course, respect your privacy and decision if you decide not to participate.
If you are interested in participating, please contact our office. We will answer any questions which you might have and we can also provide you with a form entitled "Instrument of Anatomical Gift." This form must be signed by you and two witnesses. Following receipt of this signed form, we will send you instructions and a donor identification card. We appreciate the generosity of those patients who choose to participate as the knowledge gained will greatly benefit future joint replacement patients.