CONDITIONS & PROCEDURES
The intricate landscape of knee surgery can seem daunting, but demystifying the various conditions and treatments available paves the way for recovery. Knee replacement surgery, a common solution for a range of knee issues, involves the removal of damaged portions of the knee joint and their replacement with artificial implants. Such a surgical procedure not only aims to relieve knee pain but also enhances knee motion, helping most patients to regain an active and improved lifestyle.
The decision between a total knee arthroplasty or a more conservative treatment depends on the severity of the knee joint damage and its impact on your daily life. The goal is to restore your knee to a state where it can support your daily activities without pain or limitation. From total knee replacements that address severe joint damage to partial knee replacements for localized issues, the type of surgery selected is personalized to your specific situation.
With advancements in surgical techniques, patients now have a plethora of options that cater to their unique knee conditions.
At Academy Orthopedics, we pride ourselves on offering expert orthopedic services and personalized care programs tailored to each patient’s unique needs. With nearly four decades of experience, we have established ourselves as leaders in the field, providing compassionate and comprehensive care to individuals undergoing knee surgery. Our team is dedicated to guiding you through every step of your journey, ensuring that you receive the highest quality treatment in a supportive and nurturing environment.
Knee Conditions & Procedures
Knee Osteoarthritis
Knee osteoarthritis is the most common catalyst for knee replacement surgery, characterized by the wearing away of the cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones forming the knee joint. The resulting knee pain and stiffness can significantly hinder daily activities and overall quality of life. To combat this, orthopedic surgeons may recommend a range of surgical options such as:
- Unicompartmental/Partial Knee Replacement
- Arthroscopic Debridement
- Patellofemoral Knee Replacement
- Total Knee Replacement
- Partial Lateral Knee Replacement
- Partial Medial Knee Replacement
These procedures aim to relieve pain and improve the knee’s range of motion by replacing damaged cartilage with knee implants.
In cases where the damage is localized to a specific part of the knee, a partial knee replacement might be considered. This is less invasive than a total knee replacement and can preserve more of the patient’s healthy cartilage and bone.
Meniscal Injuries
When it comes to the meniscus, a rubbery, C-shaped disc that cushions your knee, even a slight tear can be the source of significant discomfort and knee pain. Meniscal injuries often arise from sports-related activities and can lead to chronic knee problems if not addressed. Surgical intervention may include:
These surgical procedures are typically prescribed for patients who have not experienced relief from nonsurgical treatments such as physical therapy or pain medications. By addressing the root cause of knee pain, surgery can restore knee motion and allow patients to return to their normal activities with less pain and improved stability.
Knee Sports Injuries
Sports enthusiasts know all too well the risks of knee injuries, which can range from a mild sprain to severe ligament damage requiring surgical repair. Some of the recommended treatments and procedures include:
Arthroscopic reconstruction is commonly used to treat such injuries, particularly those involving the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), which are critical for knee stability.
ACL reconstruction procedures can effectively restore knee function and are often the treatment of choice for athletes looking to return to high levels of activity.
These surgical techniques aim to restore the knee’s original stability and function, facilitating a safe return to sports. With a dedicated rehabilitation program, athletes can often recover and regain full knee motion, though the recovery timeline can vary based on the severity of the injury and the individual’s overall health.
Knee Fracture
Fractures of the knee, particularly those affecting the tibia, can result from high-energy impacts or falls in younger individuals or be due to weakened bones in the elderly. These injuries often result in severe pain and require prompt surgical intervention to realign and stabilize the bones.
The surgical treatment for knee fractures or fractures of the Tibia is intricate, as it must support the body’s weight while allowing the knee joint to move and bear stress during activities like walking or climbing stairs.
Patient Specific Knee Replacement
Patient Specific Knee Replacement is a significant advancement in knee replacement surgery, as it offers a customized approach tailored to the unique anatomy of each patient’s knee. By using MRI or CT scans to create a detailed image of the knee’s structure, surgeons can design knee implants that mimic the natural shape of the knee joint. This personalized fit can lead to a more natural-feeling knee post-surgery, potentially improving outcomes and patient satisfaction.
Unlike more traditional knee replacements, the patient-specific approach can also be employed in cases of severe arthritis, providing a tailored solution where one-size-fits-all implants may not be sufficient. The precision of this method allows for a better alignment of the new knee, which can improve the long-term success of the surgery and help restore a healthy knee.
Revision Knee Replacement
When a previous knee prosthesis fails, the usual recourse is revision knee replacement surgery, where the faulty prosthesis is replaced with a new one. This type of surgery can be more complex than the initial knee replacement, as it may involve dealing with bone loss or changes in the knee anatomy since the first procedure. The surgical team carefully evaluates the condition of the existing implants and the surrounding bone to determine the best approach for replacement.
During the surgery, the surgeon inserts new knee implants, which might include a metal and plastic combination similar to the primary replacement. The recovery process may include using aids like a firm seat cushion to assist with sitting and standing.
With a successful revision surgery, patients can expect to regain knee motion and a significant reduction in knee pain, allowing them to return to their daily routines.
Outpatient Total Knee Replacement
Outpatient total knee replacement has revolutionized the traditional inpatient surgical experience by enabling patients to return home the same day as the procedure. Advancements in anesthetic techniques, minimally invasive surgical methods, and postoperative care have made this possible, allowing for a quicker return to normal activities. Patients typically undergo a complete physical examination before the surgery to ensure they’re suitable candidates for this approach, and recovery is managed with a combination of certain exercises and over-the-counter pain medication.
This efficient model of care is not only convenient for patients but can also reduce the overall cost of surgery by eliminating the need for an extended hospital stay. Outpatient knee replacement is particularly beneficial for individuals who have strong support systems at home and are motivated to engage in their recovery process.
Intraarticluar Knee Injection
Intraarticular knee injections provide a non-surgical pain relief alternative, particularly for conditions such as arthritis, which cause chronic knee pain. By delivering medication directly into the joint space, these injections can provide significant pain relief without the need for more invasive procedures.
With the guidance of an orthopedic surgeon, patients can consider intraarticular injections as part of a comprehensive pain management plan. These injections can decrease inflammation and improve knee motion, making them an integral part of treatment for those seeking to avoid or delay surgery.
Knee Angular Deformities
Knee angular deformities can disrupt the proper alignment of the knee, resulting in gait issues and increased stress on the knee joint. These deformities can arise during childhood, with common types including lateral bowing of the tibia, bow legs, and knock knees. While many of these conditions correct themselves over time, some may persist into adulthood and require surgical intervention to prevent further complications.
Correcting knee angular deformities often involves knee osteotomy, a surgical procedure that realigns the knee joint to improve function and reduce pain. This is particularly beneficial for younger patients who may not be ideal candidates for total knee replacement surgery.
Knee Infection
A knee infection, a serious condition, can occur post knee replacement surgery or due to trauma. It’s a medical emergency that requires immediate attention to prevent the spread of infection and preserve the knee joint. Treatment typically involves a combination of antibiotics to combat the bacteria and surgical procedures to clean out the infected area.
Early recognition and treatment of a knee infection are crucial for the best possible outcome. If not managed promptly, an infection can lead to long-term complications, including the need for additional surgeries or even the removal of knee implants. Patients with knee infections may experience intense pain and swelling, highlighting the importance of seeking medical care at the first sign of trouble.
Choosing Academy Orthopedics L.L.C. for Your Knee Surgery
When it comes to managing knee injury or obtaining a knee procedure, choosing the appropriate surgical team and facility is as vital as the procedure itself. At Academy Orthopedics, patients benefit from:
- Nearly four decades of orthopedic excellence
- A compassionate approach to care
- An experienced team of board-certified physicians, including Dr. Jesse Seidman, Dr. Jonathan Katz, and Dr. James Duckett
Patients are in the hands of professionals who are not only skilled surgeons but also dedicated to providing personalized care.
Opting for Academy Orthopedics provides access to an extensive range of orthopedic services, including:
- Sports medicine
- Joint replacements
- Management of degenerative diseases
- Fracture care
The care programs are meticulously designed to empower patients to regain an active lifestyle post-surgery, with a support system that guides them every step of the way.
Discover Your Path to Knee Wellness with Academy Orthopedics
Ready to bid farewell to knee pain and embrace a life of mobility? Look no further than Academy Orthopedics L.L.C. for personalized care and expert guidance. Booking your consultation is simple—just book an appointment through our website or give us a call at (770) 271-9857.
Whether you’re near our Cumming Office & Surgery Center, our Buford / South Hall Office, or our Duluth Office, our doors are wide open, and our expert team is eager to guide you on your journey to recovery.
Take charge of your life and say goodbye to knee pain today. Reach out to us and discover how we can help you explore your knee surgery options, ensuring a customized approach that prioritizes your well-being. Your health is our top priority, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.