Total Knee Joint Replacement
Total and partial knee joint replacement surgery from the surgeons who pioneered modern knee replacement surgery.
The surgeons at Orthopedics International have led the development of modern knee replacement surgery. We have, and continue to provide, the design ideas that find their way into most of the currently available knee joint replacement implants and instruments.
Total knee replacement
Total knee replacement is appropriate when there is end stage arthritis of the knee. Patients have usually had symptoms for several years and non-operative measures no longer control their pain. Often patients have structural issues with their knees that require correction at the time of their knee replacement surgery.
Total knee replacement surgery is performed as an inpatient procedure at the hospital. It requires dedication to rehabilitation on the part of the patient, but the outcomes are successful for most patients.
Implants are chosen with a consideration towards the demands of the patient and the individual wear characteristics of their knee. Knee prostheses vary considerably in their design characteristics and no single prosthesis is appropriate for every patient. Experience and detailed knowledge of the available prosthesis choices is required to secure the correct selection of the prosthesis.
Experience and technology critical in surgery success
Several studies have confirmed that surgeons who perform knee replacement surgery on a regular basis, like those at Orthopedics International, achieve far superior patient outcomes to surgeons who perform the procedure occasionally.
The technique of implant insertion is critical in knee replacement surgery. Accurate component positioning and size selection is important not only for function but also for long term wear of the implant. At Orthopedics International, we always use sophisticated instruments for intraoperative measurement and correct implant placement.
Computer guidance has been validated as a technique that can assure accuracy of placement of the knee prosthesis. Significant experience with computer navigation is required, but we employ this whenever necessary to enhance the chance of a positive outcome.
Thirty percent of unsuccessful outcomes following knee replacement surgery are due to placing knee prosthesis outside the desired position. In experienced hands, prostheses are correctly implanted in more than 95% of patients.
A careful surgical approach into the knee is critical to consistent successful outcomes following total knee replacement surgery. Orthopedics International surgeons pioneered the quadriceps preserving approach. We will access your knee joint through an approach that runs parallel rather than across the muscles and tendons. No muscles are cut or displaced with our technique.
Recovery
Immediate activity is a major key to achieving consistent successful outcome following total knee replacement surgery. Our patients are up moving and weight bearing on their replaced joints immediately following surgery. Our techniques of soft tissue protection, secure implant fixation and active and passive motion education permit immediate use of the operative limb.
Full restoration of activity is the goal for Orthopedics International knee replacement patients. Almost all patients have more ability to perform critical knee functions after surgery than before. Some of our patients have been particularly active, such as professional golfers.
Total knee replacement is safe and effective. It is major surgery and, as with all major surgeries, complications are possible. However, with proper preparation and care, complications can be avoided or kept to a minimum.
Partial knee replacement
Surgeons at Orthopedics International developed the first modern partial knee replacement prosthesis more than 20 years ago. We continue to innovate this procedure.
Partial knee replacement is appropriate when only part of the knee is a cause of symptoms and involved with the arthritic process.
Partial or unicompartmental knee replacement is a more limited procedure. The incision is smaller and the recovery time is less. Since just part of the knee is replaced it has a very natural feel.
Computer and robotic-assisted techniques are appropriate for some unicompartmental procedures. We have used the MAKOplasty technique for some patients and feel it may have value.
Unicompartmental replacement is not appropriate for all patients, but we offer this option in select circumstances.
Patient selection
For the best results following knee replacement surgery, we must take an individualized approach. Knee implants must work with the muscles, ligaments and tendons. Our technique will fit the implant to the patient rather than fit the patient to the implant.
We will examine your knee and perform any imaging as necessary. We match the procedure to your lifestyle.