When solving knee problems, sometimes physical therapy, pain medications, and rest may not be enough to alleviate the pain and discomfort. In cases where non-surgical treatments fail to deliver the desired results, a knee MRI should be conducted to determine if surgery may be the best option to improve the knee’s functionality and ease the pain.. Here is everything you need to know about knee surgeries and when to see a knee surgeon:
Table Of Contents
The Most Common Knee Surgeries
Knee Replacement Surgery
Knee replacement surgery is a significant operation recommended when the knee suffers severe damage or degeneration, such as from arthritis. This procedure may involve removing and replacing the damaged knee joint with a prosthetic implant. A knee surgeon may recommend total, or robotic knee replacement, or partial knee replacement (PKR) based on the extent of the damage. The recovery period can depend on the patient’s overall health and the success of the surgery.
Partial Robotic Knee Replacement
Partial knee replacement may involve resurfacing only the damaged part of the knee joint with metal and plastic implants, leaving the rest intact. The surgery is less invasive than total knee replacement. It has a shorter recovery time, less pain, and a higher success rate. With robotic technology, surgeons can perform surgery more precisely and accurately. This can help improve the overall outcome of the procedure.
ACL Reconstruction
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) stabilizes the joint in the knee. ACL reconstruction surgery may involve removing and replacing the damaged ligament with a new one. During the surgery, the knee surgeon can drill small tunnels into your bones to place the new ligament. This new ligament could be made from a tendon from your own body or a donor. The recovery from ACL surgery may involve physical therapy to strengthen the knee muscle and improve its movement.
PCL Reconstruction
The posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) stabilizes the joint from the back of the knee. PCL injury may be less common than ACL injury but can also lead to instability and pain in the knee. PCL reconstruction surgery may involve replacing the damaged ligament. The recovery from PCL surgery could involve physical therapy to rehabilitate the knee.
Multiple Ligament Reconstruction
Multiple ligament reconstruction surgery can involve repairing or replacing multiple ligaments in the knee injured simultaneously. It is a less common surgery than ACL and PCL reconstruction. The recovery from multiple ligament reconstruction surgery can take up to one year and will likely require strict adherence to a physical therapy program.
Common Knee Injuries That May Require Surgeries
Meniscus Tear
The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that sits between the thighbone and the shinbone. This cartilage can help absorb shock and provide stability to the knee joint. When the meniscus is injured by twisting or overloading, it can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Depending on the severity of the injury, doctors may recommend arthroscopic surgery to repair or remove the damaged cartilage.
Patellar Dislocation
This type of injury can happen when the kneecap moves out of its usual position, causing severe pain and swelling. A patellar dislocation can sometimes resolve without the need for surgery. If the patella keeps dislocating, surgery may be required to correct it. The surgery may involve realigning the patella and strengthening the surrounding muscles to prevent further dislocations.
Knee Osteoarthritis
Knee Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition that can happen when the cartilage in the knee joint wears away. This can cause the bones to rub against each other and cause immense pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. Surgery may sometimes be required to replace the affected joint with an artificial one. It’s a major surgery that may require extensive post-surgical rehabilitation. It can significantly reduce pain and restore mobility in the knee.
Ligament Sprain
Ligament sprains may occur when the ligaments that connect the bones in the knee joint get stretched or torn due to sudden trauma or overuse. The severity of the ligament sprain can determine whether surgery is needed. In mild cases, rest, physiotherapy, and bracing may be enough to heal the injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required to reconstruct the damaged ligament.
Visit a Knee Surgeon Today
Knee surgery can help restore mobility and relieve pain in those suffering from knee problems. Following the surgeon and physical therapist’s instructions can help you recover successfully and prevent long-term complications. If you are experiencing knee issues, consult your knee surgeon to determine if surgery is needed.