If you do have knee pain, you know how much it may interfere with your daily life. Even everyday activities like getting up from bed, climbing stairs, or walking are difficult. The good news? We are living in an exciting moment in medicine because knee joint preservation surgery is becoming accepted as a successful option after total knee replacement.
What is knee joint-preserving surgery?
Knee joint preservation surgery is a surgery designed to preserve your natural knee joint for as long as possible. These procedures are less invasive than total knee replacements, focusing on repairing, realigning, and regenerating damaged joint tissues to facilitate better function and alleviate pain. And the best part is it can help in delaying or perhaps even avoiding the need for major surgery later in life.
Who is it really for?
You might be thinking, “Is this the right decision for me? If you have early to mid-stage knee arthritis, cartilage damage, or ligament injuries, a knee specialist doctor can evaluate if you’re a good candidate for joint preservation procedures. These are terrific procedures for the younger, more active patient who would like to escape the disadvantages of a total knee replacement.
Key points on the preservation of the knee joint
When you think about it, there have been some pretty radical innovations in orthopedic surgery in recent years. Here’s what we know about some of the latest developments:
A Procedure to Restore Cartilage
Damaged cartilage doesn’t regenerate, but new methods of cartilage repair such as autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) and matrix-induced autologous chondrocyte implantation (MACI) allow surgeons to restore cartilage, harnessing patients’ own cells. It is like a reset for your knee!
Realignment (Straightening the Knee)
Do your knees ever feel like they’re “out of whack”? Osteotomy helps redistribute some of the weight away from your affected area to help decrease pain and the amount of joint wear over time. It’s a great option for those whose knee joints go through uneven wear and tear.
Meniscus Transplantation
If your meniscus (the cartilage that cushions your thigh and shin bones) is too damaged to repair, a meniscus transplant can help. This procedure replaces the damaged meniscus with a donor meniscus to help restore stability and function.
Choosing the right orthopaedic surgeon, especially an experienced knee and shoulder doctor, is vital. A good surgeon will not only recommend what is best for you during treatment but also facilitate the smoothest recovery possible.
What to Expect After Surgery?
Rehab is key across the board when it comes to recovery times from various procedures, although the recovery times are pretty diverse! It also helps to undergo Physical Therapy, which is very helpful to gain strength and mobility. But with the right treatment plan, many patients return to their favorite versions of movement — whether that’s hiking, running, or just playing with their kids.
Final Thoughts
So if you have knee pain, it’s not game over! With the recent advancements in knee joint preserving surgery, you have more options available now than ever! Hence, it would be better to consult a knee specialist doctor for your condition to have ideal solution. After all, your knees are here to stay with you for life — so treat them that way!
To consult an experienced specialist, reach out to Dr. Nagraj Shetty on +918898422089/ +919867979436
