Knee Replacement

//Knee Replacement
Knee Replacement2018-12-08T10:52:40+00:00

Knee Replacement

The knee is the largest hinge-type joint in the body. Knee problems are common and can occur from injury, wear and tear, or diseases such as arthritis. For many, knee replacement is the only way to relieve pain, restore function, and improve quality of life.

Three bones comprise the knee joint: the lower end of the thighbone (femur), the upper end of the shinbone (tibia), and the kneecap (patella). Each is covered with a protective cartilage that allows the bones to glide smoothly.

When this cartilage erodes with age or injury (a disease process known as osteoarthritis), the bones rub together and can cause severe joint pain. During knee replacement, the damaged surfaces of the femur, tibia, and patella are removed and replaced with artificial implants.

Based on your lifestyle, level of pain, and other factors, your doctor will help you decide if and when knee replacement is right for you. There are many types of artificial joints available that can be custom fitted to your knee, making knee replacements more comfortable than ever before.

At Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group, we perform total knee replacements and partial knee replacements. To ensure these implants are positioned properly, our total joint experts use computer-assisted surgery. We also use special techniques to limit the size and number of incisions required to operate, resulting in less scarring, pain, and down time.

Total Knee Replacement

During a total knee replacement, your surgeon will make an 8- to 10-inch incision on the side of your patella (kneecap). This procedure may be recommended for cases of severe arthritis in which all of the knee cartilage has completely worn away.

Partial Knee Replacement

Instead of replacing the entire knee, partial knee resurfacing replaces only the part of the knee damaged by arthritis. Once the diseased cartilage is removed from the affected compartment of your knee (either the inside or outside), an implant is placed on the ends of the thighbone (femur) and shinbone (tibia).

The healthy cartilage and bone in the rest of the knee is left alone. Because of this, partial knee resurfacing often feels more “natural” than a total knee replacement

It can take several weeks to fully recover after knee replacement. Physical therapy is an extremely important component of your recovery. Your doctor and therapist will work together to create a personalized rehabilitation care plan that meets your needs and goals.

When it comes to knee surgery, the total joint surgeons at Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group offer world-class skill and precision. Our patients report very high levels of satisfaction as a result of their surgery and the care they received. From diagnosis to surgery and rehabilitation, our goal is to help you move toward an active, pain-free lifestyle.

Call us today at (719) 632-7669 to learn more about knee joint replacement surgery. For your convenience, we have two locations to serve you in Southern Colorado.

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