Is It Time For A Knee Replacement?

Knee replacement surgery has been around for several decades. The procedure is a solution for severe arthritis or the wear and tear of cartilage and bone in a joint. When pain, stiffness, and mobility no longer respond to treatment, a knee replacement helps. The procedure involves the surgical removal of cartilage and bone in the knee joint and the installation of a prosthesis. The replacement joint consists of metal, ceramic, plastic, or a combination of materials. Knee replacement surgery has evolved to involve modern minimally invasive techniques. Using small incisions, orthopedic surgeons can replace the knee joint while providing additional benefits to the patient.

Key features of minimally invasive surgery

Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is a technique that uses small incisions and an arthroscopic device to help perform the surgery. The scope is a long, thin apparatus with a camera and light at the end, which projects the surgical site on an external monitor. The surgeon can then perform the procedure with additional tools through another incision. MIS knee replacement has several fantastic benefits. The small incisions minimize tissue trauma, leading to less post-operative pain and smaller scars. The surgeon can also avoid muscles like the quadriceps, leading to less blood loss and a lower risk of complications. Most patients who receive minimally invasive knee replacements have shorter hospital stays and faster recoveries. For the ideal patient, MIS makes knee replacements more convenient and effective.

Modern approaches to knee replacement

New, innovative techniques, like robotic-arm-assisted surgery, have improved speed and accuracy. This device uses a robotic arm device controlled by the surgeon to perform the surgery. The device also designs the prosthetic joint specific to the dimensions of the patient. This adds a modern twist that can lead to improved outcomes while helping even less experienced surgeons increase success rates. Surgeons can also perform minimally invasive knee replacements with techniques like the mini-mid vastus and mini-medial parapatellar approach. These options reduce damage to the surrounding muscles while maintaining accuracy.

Preparing for surgery

Knee replacement surgery is a multi-step approach that often starts well before the operating room. The patient may start physical therapy (PT) to strengthen the surrounding muscles and prepare the joint for surgery. Some patients also have health and weight goals, which can help with faster recovery and improved knee function. Hospitals using robotics also use this time to prepare the joint based on patient specifications. The patient is also advised on preparing for post-operative care, such as enlisting someone to drive home and aftercare. On the day of surgery, the patient prepares for an outpatient procedure.

What should you expect on surgery day?

On the day of surgery, the patient is placed on the operating table face up and given general anesthesia. The surgeon will decide on the best technique to use beforehand. A minimally invasive incision, about the size of a buttonhole or larger, is made along the knee. The tissue is separated to allow the arthroscope to enter and view the joint. Additional incisions are made for surgical tools. The surgeon removes the damaged cartilage and, sometimes, the patella for a total joint replacement. Parts of the femur and tibia are also removed. The prepared joint is then inserted with spacers to ensure a smooth movement. The incisions are closed, and drains may be inserted to limit fluid buildup.

It’s all about recovery

In most cases of minimally invasive knee surgery, the patient can leave the hospital the same day. Recovery starts immediately, with pain management techniques applied immediately. Gentle physiotherapy (PT) of the leg can start almost immediately. Once the stitches are removed, the patient can continue PT, which includes the joint. The post-recovery period can benefit from less bleeding, pain, and scarring. On average, the entire recovery period can last 3-6 months, though mobility may be limited at different stages. Over time, full strength and mobility return, but this is dependent on patient effort, health, and minimal complications. Knee replacements tend to have high success and satisfaction rates of between 90-95%.

Enjoy your new joint with MIS

Knee replacement surgery is an excellent strategy to address severe arthritis or other situations that damage or degrade the knee. MIS has proven success rates and many additional benefits for the patient. From smaller incisions and less pain to a faster recovery, more patients are looking into minimally invasive methods. The surgeon will discuss the modern approaches available, including robotics and strategies to preserve as much tissue as possible. Knee replacements will continue to be an effective option for those seeking less pain and more mobility.