Knee replacement surgery, a transformative procedure aimed at alleviating chronic knee pain and restoring function, is a significant decision requiring careful consideration.
Here’s a concise yet comprehensive overview to equip you with the necessary details.
- Purpose and Need: Knee replacement surgery becomes an option when conservative treatments like medication and physical therapy fail to provide adequate relief from debilitating knee pain and stiffness, often caused by arthritis or injury.
- Types of Surgery: There are various types of knee replacement surgeries tailored to individual needs, including total knee replacement, partial knee replacement, or revision knee replacement. Your surgeon will recommend the most suitable option based on your condition. When appropriate for the patient, ORTHOKnox offers MAKOplasty®, which is an innovative surgical technique that allows your surgeon to use 3D technology and a robotic arm to precisely perform your knee surgery. With this technique, your surgeon will be able to preserve some of your own bone and tissue to achieve a more natural-feeling replacement. MAKOplasty® also results in a shorter hospital stay, minimal blood loss, a shorter surgery time, and a quicker rehabilitation. These factors make it an ideal option for most patients. You can see a video of the MAKOplasty® process here!
- Preoperative Evaluation: Before surgery, thorough evaluations, including medical history review, physical examinations, and imaging tests, are conducted to assess your overall health and identify potential risks.
- Surgical Procedure: The surgery involves replacing damaged parts of the knee joint with artificial components made of durable materials. It is typically performed under anesthesia and involves precise incisions, removal of damaged tissue, and placement of prosthetic components to restore joint function.
- Recovery and Rehabilitation: Following surgery, a period of hospitalization may be required, followed by intensive rehabilitation. Physical therapy plays a crucial role in regaining strength, mobility, and flexibility in the knee joint.
- Risks and Complications: While knee replacement surgery is generally safe, there are potential risks, including infection, blood clots, implant loosening, and nerve damage. Understanding these risks and discussing them with your surgeon is essential.
- Long-Term Outlook: For many, knee replacement surgery significantly improves quality of life by reducing pain and enhancing mobility. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and weight management, is essential for long-term success.
Knee Replacement Surgery in Knoxville, TN
Knee replacement surgery offers hope for individuals suffering from chronic knee pain and disability. By understanding its purpose, types, preoperative evaluation, surgical process, recovery, risks, and long-term outlook, you can make informed decisions and approach the journey with confidence.
With its on-site physical therapists, board-certified surgeon, and Orthopedic Urgent Care that is available without an appointment, ORTHOKnox has got you covered when it comes to knee pain. For more information about how ORTHOKnox can perform your knee surgery, call (865) 251-3030, or fill out our easy-to-use online appointment request form. We look forward to hearing from you!
