More than 600,000 knee replacement surgeries are performed every year in the United States. This surgery aims to relieve painful and disabling symptoms in the knee – usually due to arthritis – and to restore knee function.
Advancements are continually being made in the materials and techniques used in knee replacement surgery, and these advancements help to improve the longevity of the prosthesis. Let’s go over some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about knee replacement surgery and talk about where you can go to receive treatment that works for you.
What are the signs that you need knee replacement surgery?
Persistent and severe knee pain, limited mobility, and frequent sleep interruptions due to the pain are all indicators that you may need to have knee replacement surgery. A knee with damaged or diseased tissues can affect your quality of life, and this is heavily considered when assessing your suitability for the procedure.
What is minimally invasive knee replacement surgery?
Knee replacement surgery may now be performed using a minimally invasive approach, requiring only tiny incisions and the use of miniature surgical tools to complete the operation. With minimal disturbance to nearby healthy tissues, patients benefit with less pain, fewer risks, and a faster recovery period. Minimally invasive knee replacement surgery is usually performed as an outpatient procedure, which means you get to go home on the same day as the surgery.
Am I a good candidate for minimally invasive knee surgery?
Patients who are good candidates for minimally invasive knee replacement surgery have a knee with advanced-stage arthritis. There is evidence of joint deformity, and the pain is so severe and disabling that even the smallest tasks become very difficult to do.
How long will my prosthesis last?
The prostheses used in knee arthroplasties are made of highly durable materials, such as ceramic and titanium. They can last 20 years or even longer. Talk to your surgeon about how to increase the longevity of your knee prosthesis.
Will I be able to exercise after having this surgery?
Physical therapy exercises are a critical part of postoperative recovery and rehabilitation. You will be working with a physical therapist, and you will likely begin to do some small exercises as soon as the day of the surgery.
How long will I be in the hospital?
Minimally invasive knee replacement surgeries may be performed in an outpatient setting and therefore don’t require an overnight stay, but traditional open knee surgery may require one or two nights in the hospital. The surgeon will help you decide which is best for you.
Joint Replacement Surgeon in Naples, FL
If you are interested in knee replacement surgery, come in and have a consultation with our joint replacement surgeons here at the Joint Replacement Institute in Naples. We will evaluate your condition and discuss which treatment would work best for you.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced orthopedic surgeons, call (239) 261-2663 or fill out our appointment request form online now. We look forward to seeing you!
