According to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, over 600,000 knee replacement surgeries are performed annually in the United States, highlighting the growing need for effective solutions to chronic knee pain. At the practice of Kevin McCarthy, MD, we understand the impact knee pain can have on your daily life and are dedicated to helping you regain mobility and improve your quality of life.
Dr. Kevin McCarthy, a leading orthopedic surgeon based in Hollywood, FL, is a highly-regarded expert in advanced joint care, specializing in knee replacements. Dr. McCarthy utilizes the innovative Enovis knee system to tailor each procedure to the specific needs of our patients, ensuring optimal recovery and long-term joint health. If you're experiencing persistent knee pain and wondering if knee replacement is right for you, we invite you to schedule an appointment with us today to learn more about your options.
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Read on to discover how knee replacement surgery works and how it may be the key to regaining your active lifestyle.
Understanding Knee Pain and Damage
To understand how a knee replacement works, it's important to first understand the structure and function of the knee joint. The knee is made up of three bones: the femur (thigh bone), tibia (shin bone), and patella (kneecap). These bones are connected by ligaments, tendons, and muscles that work together to support the joint and allow for smooth movement.
As we age or due to injury, this complex system can become damaged, resulting in chronic pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion. Common causes of knee damage include:
- osteoarthritis
- rheumatoid arthritis
- post-traumatic arthritis
- and injury to the knee.
When other treatments like medication, physical therapy, and injections are no longer effective in managing symptoms, a knee replacement may be recommended.
What is Knee Replacement Surgery?
Knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves removing the damaged parts of the knee joint and replacing them with artificial materials. These materials are designed to mimic the function of healthy joints, allowing for improved mobility and reduced pain.
There are several types of knee replacement surgeries, including:
- Total Knee Replacement (TKR): This procedure involves replacing the entire knee joint, including the femur, tibia, and kneecap, providing relief for patients with severe arthritis affecting all parts of the knee.
- Partial Knee Replacement (PKR): In a PKR, only the damaged portion of the knee is replaced, typically when arthritis affects only one compartment, preserving healthy bone and tissue.
- Kneecap Replacement (Patellofemoral Replacement): This surgery targets only the kneecap and its groove, offering a solution for patients with isolated kneecap arthritis.
- Bicompartmental Knee Replacement: This involves replacing two compartments of the knee, combining partial replacements, and preserving as much healthy tissue as possible for enhanced joint function.
The Enovis Knee System: Advancing Joint Care
At Kevin McCarthy, MD, we are proud to offer our patients the most advanced technology and techniques for knee replacement surgery. The innovative Enovis knee system is a personalized approach to joint arthroplasty, utilizing cutting-edge implants and tools that allow for precise placement and reduced wear on artificial joints.
The Enovis system offers several advantages over traditional knee replacements, including:
- Customized Implants: Each implant is designed based on the patient's unique anatomy, ensuring a perfect fit for improved stability and range of motion.
- Minimally Invasive Approach: The Enovis system allows for smaller incisions and less tissue damage, resulting in less pain, and scarring, and a faster recovery time.
- Longer Lasting: With advanced materials and design, Enovis implants are designed to last longer than traditional knee replacements, reducing the need for revision surgery.
- Patient-Specific Instrumentation (PSI): This technology utilizes CT scans to create custom surgical guides specific to each patient's knee anatomy, improving accuracy and precision during surgery.
The Knee Replacement Procedure
Knee replacement surgery is typically performed under general or regional anesthesia, meaning you will be asleep or numb from the waist down. The procedure involves the following steps:
- Making an incision: The surgeon will make a small incision on the front of the knee to access the joint.
- Preparing the bones: The damaged portions of the femur and tibia are removed, leaving behind healthy bone to support the implants.
- Placing the implants: The femoral and tibial components are secured with bone cement or press-fit technology. The patellar component is typically not cemented in place.
- Closing the incision: The incision is closed with stitches or staples, and a bandage is applied.
The entire procedure typically takes 1-2 hours, but your specific surgery may vary depending on your individual needs. After surgery, you will be taken to a recovery room and monitored closely as the anesthesia wears off.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
After surgery, patients will typically stay in the hospital for a few days for monitoring and initial rehabilitation exercises with a physical therapist. Dr. McCarthy will provide specific guidelines on post-operative care including medication management, wound care, and physical therapy to aid in healing and regaining strength in the knee joint.
Most patients are able to resume light activities within a few weeks and return to their usual daily routine in about 4-6 weeks. Dr. McCarthy will continue to monitor progress and provide guidance on gradually resuming more strenuous activities. With proper care and rehabilitation, patients can expect to enjoy the benefits of a knee replacement for 15-20 years.
Is Knee Replacement Right for You?
Knee replacement surgery can significantly improve the quality of life for those suffering from chronic knee pain and damage. However, it is not suitable for everyone. Your doctor will evaluate your overall health, lifestyle, and level of knee damage before determining if you are a good candidate for surgery.
Factors to consider include:
- age
- weight
- activity level
- health conditions (such as heart disease or diabetes)
- and the severity of knee damage.
It's important to discuss your options with a trusted and experienced orthopedic surgeon like Dr. McCarthy who can provide personalized recommendations for your specific case.
When To Consider Knee Replacement
As with any medical procedure, the decision to undergo knee replacement surgery should not be taken lightly. It's important to consider the potential risks and benefits and weigh them against your individual needs and circumstances.
Some signs that it may be time to consider a knee replacement include:
- persistent pain despite other treatments
- difficulty performing everyday tasks due to limited mobility
- declining quality of life due to knee pain
- and interference with work or hobbies.
At Kevin McCarthy, MD, we believe in taking a patient-centered approach and will work with you to determine the best course of treatment for your unique situation.
Step Confidently into Your Future with Dr. McCarthy!
Chronic knee pain doesn't have to be a permanent part of your life. With knee replacement surgery, mobility and comfort can be significantly restored, allowing you to return to the activities you love. Dr. McCarthy is committed to providing expert guidance and personalized care tailored to your needs.
Ready to step into a more comfortable life? Contact us today to schedule your consultation and discover how our personalized knee replacement services can transform your future.
