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Advanced Knee Care

Knee Surgeon and Specialist Stefan D. Tarlow, M.D.

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A Patient’s Complete Guide to Knee Replacement Surgery

July 13, 2023 By Stefan D. Tarlow MD

knee surgery

Knee replacement surgery is a life-changing procedure that can provide immense relief and improved mobility for individuals suffering from severe knee pain and dysfunction. If you or a loved one are considering knee replacement surgery or seeking information about the procedure, this comprehensive guide will address your concerns, provide a detailed understanding of the surgery, and help you make an informed decision.

Understanding Knee Problems

an elderly man holding his knee because of knee pain

Before delving into knee replacement surgery, it’s important to understand the common causes of knee pain and mobility issues. Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, and other conditions can lead to the deterioration of the knee joint, causing pain, stiffness, and limitations in daily activities. Non-surgical treatments such as medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications may offer temporary relief, but when these options are no longer effective, knee replacement surgery becomes a viable solution.

Knee Replacement Procedure

knee surgeon holding a model of a knee

The knee replacement procedure involves removing the damaged surfaces of the knee joint and replacing them with artificial components. This surgical intervention is customized to meet the unique needs of each patient, with options including total knee replacement or partial knee replacement. During the surgery, the patient is placed under anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision to access the knee joint. Using robotic technology, the damaged bone and cartilage are precisely removed using the Mako robot, and the artificial components are securely placed to correct angular deformity to restore stability which alleviates arthritic knee pain. Many people have returned to near-normal functions by returning to activities such as walking, hiking, most sports, and travel.

Preparing for Knee Replacement Surgery

a patient and a knee surgeon doing a pre operative consultation

Before undergoing knee replacement surgery, a thorough evaluation and consultation process is conducted to ensure the patient’s suitability for the procedure. This includes reviewing medical history, physical examinations, and pre-operative tests to assess overall health. Lifestyle modifications, such as weight management and strengthening exercises, may be recommended to optimize the surgical outcome. Correctable risk factors (obesity, diabetes, and smoking) should be modified prior to surgery to minimize the risk of an adverse event. During this preparatory phase, we address patient expectations and address any concerns that are specific to our individual patients.

The Day of Surgery

knee surgery operation

Knee replacement is a day surgery procedure for nearly all people. On the day of the surgery, patients are admitted to the Ambulatory Surgery Center and undergo pre-surgical preparations with the surgical team that includes nursing and anesthesia and your surgeon. The patient is then taken to the operating room, where the surgical procedure is performed under the care of experienced orthopedic surgeons and a dedicated medical team. Post-surgical recovery room care and monitoring is usually 90 minutes, ensuring the patient’s comfort and stability. People are discharged to home with a walker, pain medications, and post-op instructions.

Knee Replacement Recovery

a man wearing knee braces

The recovery phase after knee replacement surgery is crucial for a successful outcome. Physical therapy plays a significant role in the recovery process, helping patients regain knee strength, flexibility, mobility, and decreased pain. Strong pain medicine is required for 3-5 days. A walker is used for 7-14 days. A healthy diet, rich in nutrients, is also important for optimal healing and recovery. Patients can expect to achieve various milestones throughout the recovery timeline, gradually returning to their driving (1-2 weeks), normal daily activities (2-4 weeks), and work and exercise routines (1-3 months).

Managing Risks and Complications

a knee doctor talking to a patient in a wheelchair

Like any surgical procedure, knee replacement surgery carries certain risks and potential complications. These may include infection, blood clots, implant-related issues, and nerve or blood vessel damage. However, advancements in surgical techniques, infection prevention protocols, and appropriate post-operative care have significantly minimized these risks. It’s crucial for patients to follow their surgeon’s instructions, take prescribed medications, and seek medical help if they notice any signs of complications.

Life After Knee Replacement

elderly couple running

After successful knee replacement surgery, patients experience remarkable improvements in mobility, pain relief, and overall quality of life. Activities that were once limited or challenging become more manageable. While the artificial knee joint may last for many years, proper care and maintenance are essential. Lifestyle factors such as maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in low-impact exercises, and avoiding excessive strain on the knee joint can promote long-term joint health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

To address common concerns, here are answers to some frequently asked questions about knee replacement surgery:

How long does the recovery process take after knee replacement surgery?

The recovery timeline varies for each individual, but most patients can expect significant
improvement within a few weeks. Full recovery and return to normal activities may take 3-12 months.

What precautions should I take during the recovery period?

It is important to follow the surgeon’s post-operative instructions, including medication
schedules, physical therapy exercises, and wound care. Avoid high-impact activities and excessive bending or twisting of the knee during the initial recovery phase.

Will I be able to resume activities such as sports and exercise after a knee replacement?

Most patients may resume most activities such as walking, swimming, cycling, hiking, racquet sports, skiing, golfing, and jogging. Always consult with your surgeon regarding specific activities and timelines.

What are the potential risks and complications associated with knee replacement surgery?

Potential risks include infection, blood clots, implant-related issues, nerve or blood vessel damage, and allergic reactions. However, these risks are relatively low, and the surgical team takes necessary precautions to minimize them.

How long does a knee replacement implant last?

Modern knee replacement implants are designed to be long-lasting, with an average lifespan of 20 – 30 years. However, the actual durability can vary depending on various factors, including patient activity level and overall joint health.

What are signs that indicate the need for a knee replacement?

Signs that you may need a knee replacement include persistent knee pain, limited mobility, difficulty performing daily activities, and the failure of non-surgical treatments to provide relief. Consult with an orthopedic specialist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment recommendation.

How Successful Are Total Knee Replacements in the First Three Years?

Knee Replacement surgery is very successful. 90% of patients are pleased with their knee function with the artificial joint. Twenty-year implant survival rates are 90%.

Does Outpatient Physical Therapy Improve Functional Outcome After Total Knee Replacement?

Quality of life and functional outcomes after total knee replacement are of great importance to both patients and surgeons. All studies show that a post-operative rehabilitation program is essential for a successful functional outcome. However, that program can either be directed by a physical therapist or the patient. Be sure to exercise your replaced knee in the first few months after surgery – failure to participate in some type of rehabilitation program will be a detriment to your outcome.

Knee replacement surgery offers hope and restoration for individuals suffering from debilitating knee pain and limited mobility. By understanding the procedure, its benefits, risks, and recovery process, patients can make an informed decision and approach their surgery with confidence. Remember, always consult with an experienced orthopedic surgeon to assess your individual situation and determine the best course of action.

If you are interested in learning more about knee replacement surgery, its benefits, and the recovery process, visit https://tarlowknee.com/ to explore additional information and resources.

Filed Under: knee replacement, knee surgery

Total Knee Replacement: Causes, What To Expect, and Recovery

August 10, 2022 By Stefan D. Tarlow MD

If chronic pain, severe damage, or instability keeps you from the quality of life you want, a knee replacement might be the solution. Total knee replacement surgery, or knee arthroplasty, is common for those who find non-surgical therapy and solutions unhelpful. Here is a rundown on all you need to know.

Common Causes

Arthritic pain is the most common cause of knee arthroplasty surgery. This includes Degenerative arthritis (or Osteoarthritis), Traumatic arthritis, and rarely Rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is most common cause of knee arthritis and is most often seen in patients over 50. Knee arthritis leads to the death of the cells that cover the bone. This tissue is also known as articular cartilage. When the articular cartilage degenerates, the bones press against each other, generating knee pain, stiffness, limpness, and angular deformity. Traumatic OA follows after a severe knee injury such as fracture, ACL tear, or meniscal tear. This is more prevalent in younger patients and produces symptoms in people as young as 30. These knee injuries damage the articular cartilage, like in Degenerative OA, igniting intense knee pain and activity limitation. Rheumatoid arthritis is a less common disease in which your immune system attacks the knee joint lining. This also causes the cartilage to wear away from the bone and causes severe deformity and pain. Luckily medical management has made significant progress, and rheumatoid patients rarely come to knee replacement.

Who Ends Up Getting the Surgery?

There are specific criteria (or indications) for total knee replacement surgery(including but not limited to symptoms, physical findings, X-ray changes, body weight, smoking status, and diabetes status). Surgery recommendations are based on these factors and the person’s functional status with activities of daily living (including desired activities, work requirements, and severe knee pain). A shared decision for surgery comes from the patient, the family, and the surgeon. Knee replacement surgery is only recommended for people with severe pain, which reduces their quality of life. Included are limiting everyday work and recreational activities. Most patients with advanced knee OA notice angular knee deformities like knee-bowing and limited bend-ing. Most have failed non-surgical treatments like medications, injections, physical therapy, and bracing.

What To Expect During Total Knee Replacement?

The Knee MD of Phoenix Dr. Tarlow diagnosing a knee X-ray

Before knee replacement surgery, your surgeon will evaluate your tests, x-rays, and medical history to ensure this is your best decision. In addition, other surgical details will be explored. Once your consultation is complete, finish all tasks given to you to ensure the best possible outcome for your recovery after the surgery. Don’t forget to modify your home and create an assistance plan for the first few weeks.

Robotic Technology with the Stryker Mako Robot has improved patient outcomes. The surgery is performed in about 90 minutes at an ambulatory surgery center (most patients do not need to go to a hospital). There is no overnight stay. You will walk without a walker and drive within a week or two.

At the Ambulatory Surgery Center

Knee replacement surgery is more tolerable with multimodal pain management, including pre-surgical pain medications, an adductor canal block, a short-acting spinal, and a light general anesthetic. Your surgical team will consult on whether to use general or spinal anesthesia. Most patients awake comfortably, and the intense transient surgical pain doesn’t hit until the next day. In addition, prophylactic intravenous and into-the-knee antibiotics are employed to reduce the risk of a knee infection.

During Surgery

The incision is about 8 inches long. Your surgeon maps the surface of your knee to validate the virtual model of your knee created from the pre-op CT scan. The surgeon completes the complex plan, which allows for accurate and “natural” placement of the knee implants. The robotic arm is brought into the surgical field, and the damaged surfaces are precisely removed. The implants are attached to your bone, usually using bone ingrowth technology. The implant position is validated, and the incision is closed. This operation typically takes a surgical team 1 1/2 hours to complete.

After Surgery

After the knee replacement surgery, you’ll be taken to a recovery room. Typically patients stay for 90 minutes, then are discharged home. People can walk full weight bearing with a walker on the same day. Home medications include pain management medications and baby aspirin for blood clot prevention.

male physiotherapist checking woman's knee mobility

Photo created by freepik – www.freepik.com

How Does Recovery Look?

You can shower the next day. You will have an office check-up in a week. Patients have a full weight bearing with a walker for 1-2 weeks and driving in a week or two. Around the 3-6 weeks mark, most patients can resume their day-to-day activities, including housekeeping, driving, shopping, and low-impact activities like walking or swimming. Physical therapy for 6-8 weeks helps speed the recovery.

Full recovery:

Most patients return to regular physical activities; the knee should look normal with its scar. Your knee replacement surgery is successful with the proper care and professional help!

Filed Under: knee replacement

TSA- Checkpoint and Knee Replacement

August 2, 2019 By Stefan D. Tarlow MD

This video guides you through to airport check point process.

Open this link to print an optional TSA notification card to carry with you at the airport checkpoint.

Filed Under: Uncategorized, airport metal detector, knee replacement, partial knee replacement, Total Knee Replacement, unicompartmental knee replacement

Patient Satisfaction Quite High for Unicompartmental Knee Replacement (Makoplasty)

October 2, 2017 By Stefan D. Tarlow MD

An article published in the Journal of Arthroplasty compares patient satisfaction rates at 2 years after surgery for both Total Knee Replacement and Unicompartmental Knee Replacement (also termed Makoplasty or partial knee replacement).

This study confirmed that Unicompartmental Knee Replacement patients have higher satisfaction scores (86 % vs 71 %) than Total Knee Replacement patients.  The reasons for this include better range of motion, more natural feeling knee, less stiffness, and less serious complications for patients receiving a Unicompartmental Knee Replacement.  Additionally, Total Knee Replacement is a more invasive surgery with longer healing times.

For many patients there can be a choice between which type of knee replacement you can have.  Make a thoughtful decision based on your specific clinical information and discuss the options with your surgeon.  Choose wisely.

Filed Under: knee replacement, makoplasty Tagged With: knee replacement, makoplasty, makoplasty knee surgery

Minimally Invasive Total Knee Replacement

September 27, 2017 By Stefan D. Tarlow MD

minimally invasive TKR

One of the most common orthopedic procedures is total knee replacement. This minimally invasive procedure is also known as arthroplasty. It is used to replace worn or damaged surfaces of the knees. Basically, an implant is placed as a replacement for the knee surfaces to increase mobility, relieve pain and help the patient return to his/her normal everyday activities.

Minimally Invasive vs. Traditional Approach

The main goal of total knee replacement procedure is to relieve the pain, restore the health and function of the, and to eventually help the patient return to daily activities. In this procedure, the damaged bone and cartilage are removed from the surface of the knee and replaced with artificial ones.

The traditional approach involves full surgery. It takes longer and leaves a long vertical incision in the center of the operated. Now minimally invasive knee replacement is gaining more popularity over the traditional approach. This is because, as the term suggests, the technique is less-invasive and faster. I also uses a shorter incision; hence, speeding recovery and reducing postoperative complications.

While both traditional and minimally invasive total knee replacement have more or less the same results; minimally invasive promises a faster recovery and lesser risk for complications. The only problem is that unlike traditional approach, minimally invasive procedure is not for everyone. You need to discuss with your surgeon first if you are a good candidate for the said procedure.

Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement

In minimally invasive TKR, the artificial implants used are the same as the ones used in traditional approach. However, the surgical instruments used for the removal of the damaged cartilage and bones and for the placement of the implants are different and more specialized. This is because in minimally invasive procedure, the incision is shorter, about 4 to 6 inches only, compared to the 10-inch incision in traditional surgery. This means less tissue disturbance and faster recovery. Additionally, the technique used in opening the knee is also less invasive, avoiding trauma and reducing risk for infection and other complications.

Among the benefits of minimally invasive knee replacement procedure are quicker and less painful recovery, rapid return to normal daily activities and lesser damage to soft tissues. It also means less stay at the hospital.

As already mentioned, not all people are a good candidate to undergo minimally invasive total knee replacement. If you wish to know if you are a candidate or not, and if you wish to know more about minimally invasive knee replacement; contact an orthopedic surgeon. Make an appointment with Dr. Tarlow today.

Filed Under: knee replacement, Total Knee Replacement Tagged With: total knee replacement

Warning Signs That You May Need Knee Replacement Surgery

August 29, 2017 By Stefan D. Tarlow MD

Signs You Need Knee Surgery

This past year, there have been more than 600,000 total knee replacements performed by surgeons in the United States alone. And this number is expected to continually rise for the years to come. This says that despite the long rehabilitation and recovery process of the procedure, more and more people trust the effectiveness and benefit of the knee replacement surgery. But when do you know that you may already need to undergo knee replacement surgery? The answer is both personal and practical.

Sometimes, people wait for things to become unbearable and too much before they decide to get knee replacement surgery. Well, this is more or less a normal response because surgery is a big deal to most people. People prefer minimally invasive and other non-surgical options to treat their knee problem. But there are cases where the only and best option left is to undergo total or partial knee replacement. And there are warning signs for this.

Signs You Need Knee Surgery

  • Severe pain in the knee and the surrounding area, which already affects your daily activities.
  • Knee pain is still present even when you are resting, feeling moderate to severe pain day or night.
  • Knee swelling and inflammation that no longer respond to medications.
  • Knee stiffness.
  • Bowing out of the leg.
  • Taking NSAIDs no longer provide relief for the pain.

If you feel and experience these warning signs, immediately go to the surgeon and ask for an advice. Chances are, it is high time that you undergo knee replacement surgery before things get from bad to worse.

These are serious signs. These signify that you must not delay because things are surely starting to get worse. The best warning that you must really heed is when the surgeon himself has advised you to undergo surgery as soon as possible. If you don’t heed such warning signs, you may suffer from any of these repercussions.

  • Weakened muscles and ligaments in the knee.
  • Deformities of the area outside the knee joints.
  • Limited mobility due to loss of functionality and chronic pain.
  • Continued degeneration of the knee joints which leads to various complications.
  • Reduced success rate of surgery in the future.

There is no hard and fast rule as t when you should need knee replacement surgery. The best advice is that coming from a reliable, experienced surgeon. Factors like medical conditions, age, weight and lifestyle also play a vital role on whether you should undergo knee replacement or not, or when.

Contact a Surgeon

But if you already suffer from any of the mentioned warning signs, the best thing to do is not to delay. Immediately seek help from a qualified professional. If you decide to get a Makoplasty knee replacement surgery, don’t hesitate to come straight to TarlowKnee. We provide advanced knee care in Arizona.

Contact us to schedule an appointment.

Filed Under: knee replacement, knee surgery Tagged With: knee problems, knee surgery

TKR Surgery Fact: Do Both Knees End Up Being Replaced?

July 26, 2017 By Stefan D. Tarlow MD

total knee replacement

Not all who have knee problems need to undergo knee replacement. Most of the time, only patients with severe destruction of the knee joint or osteoarthritis end up having their knee replaced. The procedure is medically known as Total Knee Replacement surgery. In this procedure, the defective knee will be replaced with an artificial one. The diseased or injured joint will be replaced with plastic and metal parts which function normally and last long enough for the patient to enjoy doing normal activities again.

Total Knee Replacement is a popular procedure not only for osteoarthritis patients, but also to those who have devastatingly injured their knee. Despite the success and innovativeness of this procedure, some people are still wary of its effects. Some patients are still concerned about the pros and cons of Total Knee Replacement.

But it is not only this that they are worried about. There are reports that say once you have undergone TKR on your one knee, you will likely undergo another procedure on your other knee. Patients raise concern that once you have had one knee replaced, there is a high chance that your other knee will need replacement too. So the question that needs to be answered is this: do both knees end up being replaced? Is this a fact or just a myth? Let us find out if there is any truth to this.

To answer the question, let us take a look into a particular study conducted on the subject. A population study spanning 40 years was conducted. This question was addressed to the TKR candidates: if you had one knee replaced, what are the chances that the other knee will also be replaced through Total Knee Replacement surgery? Based on the data studied, the general finding is this: there is 45% chance that the other knee will be replaced within 11 years after the first knee replacement. In the study, the data of 2,000 total knee patients, spanning from 1969 to 2008, were analyzed. The results show that out of the 2,000 patients who underwent one knee replacement, 809 had their other knee replaced within 11 years after the initial knee replacement procedure. In fact, most of the patients underwent the second knee replacement surgery within 10 years.

Now going back to the question, the answer is yes, it is a TKR surgery fact that both knees could end up being replaced. But this does not mean that TKR as a procedure is not working. It just goes to show that once one knee has encountered an injury or another problem that needs surgery; there is higher chance that the other knee will also encounter the same fate. Still, this does not take away the fact that TKR is an innovative and important procedure. And if you indeed end up having your other knee replaced too with an artificial one, you can still count on the procedure just as you had during the first surgery. As long as it is done right and by the right professional, there is really nothing to worry about.

If you wish to know more facts about Total Knee Surgery or if you need to consult anything about your knee problems or injury, contact Dr. Tarlow at Advanced Knee Care. Make an appointment with us and we will help you with your knee issues.

Filed Under: knee replacement, knee surgery, Total Knee Replacement Tagged With: knee surgery, tkr

Sex Life after Knee Replacement

July 19, 2017 By Stefan D. Tarlow MD

tarlow knee sexual functionKnee problems such as osteoarthritis affect millions of Americans every year. Aside from this fact, many people are not that aware that there is a correlation between knee problem and sexual function. Based on a research presented at the annual meeting of American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), osteoarthritis of the knee limits sexual activity.

In a survey of Knee Replacement patients, several patients were observed. These patients have undergone knee replacement surgery two years prior. The results and findings of such survey were published in the Journal of Arthroplasty. Before knee replacement, 45% of the patients with knee arthritis said that before knee replacement, their sexual frequency and/or quality was limited. They cited knee pain and limited knee flexions as the major factors that make having sexual activity challenging. After they have undergone knee surgery, 72% of the patients said that they were no longer limited by the aforementioned factors. Postoperatively, patients were able to resume sexual activity at an average of 2 ½ months (ranging from 0-18 months) after the knee replacement operation.

In another study, patients under the age of 70 with a mean age of 57.7 years agreed to participate. The study required them to answer and fill out questionnaires prior their scheduled for primary total knee replacement. They were also asked again six months and then one year after surgery. Out of the 147 patients, 78 of which are women and 68 are men, 65% participated in and completed the three surveys. The result of said study contains the following findings and generalizations:

  • 67% of the patients reported physical problems and limitations regarding sexual activity prior to the surgery. The common problems include stiffness, pain, reduced libido and inability to attain proper sexual position.
  • 91% of the patients answered that they experienced psychological issues related to their knee problem or osteoarthritis. The issues include low sexual self image and diminished sense of general well-being.
  • 90% of the TKR patients reported that they experienced improved overall sexual function after the surgery. More women reported improvement more than men. 42% reported improvement in libido; 41% said that their intercourse frequency has increased; 41% also said that they have increased intercourse duration; 84% of the patients reported that their general well-being improvement; and 55% attested that their sexual self image developed. Only 16% of the patients said that the surgery did not significantly affected their sexual function, particularly due to fear that the replacement joint might get damaged.

Sexual function is also a vital part of one’s life. It is only justifiable to include sexuality and sexual activity in the evaluation of the outcome of total knee replacement and other knee surgery. Sexual experience is part of one’s overall health and lifestyle, which is why it is great to note that knee surgery has something to offer as regards one’s overall sexual function.

But there must be a balance between sexual function and taking care of the knee replacement. This is better discussed personally with your surgeon or knee professional. If you need to learn more about knee surgery or if you want to undergo the same, contact Tarlow Knee. Make an appointment with us today.

Filed Under: knee osteoarthritis, knee replacement, knee surgery, Total Knee Replacement Tagged With: Knee Osteoarthritis, osteoarthritis treatment

Total Knee Replacement Fact: Obesity Puts Patients at Risk

July 12, 2017 By Stefan D. Tarlow MD

obesity and total knee replacement

Much is said about Total Knee Replacement. While many agree that it is a perfectly safe procedure, there are those who say that the surgery can be risky. One of the most common factors that increase the risk for knee replacement is obesity. There is a circulating belief that people who are obese are not fit to undergo TKR. There is higher risk for complications for patients who are obese, they say. How true is this and if so, what are the possible serious complications? Let us find out.

Let us take a closer look into this study conducted by Mayo Clinic which was published in 2016. The study seeks to the address the following question: Is Total Knee Replacement a more risky procedure in patients with high body mass index (BMI)? Luckily, this was answered in the same study.

The study used and reviewed the data of 22,000 patients who underwent Total Knee Replacement. The average BMI of the patients is 31. Out of the 22,000 patients included in the study, 5,500 have a BMI above 35. Based on the results of the study, there was an increased rate of repeat knee surgery (including revision total knee replacement surgery) as well a striking increase of knee joint infection, a serious complications in the morbidly obese group (BMI 35-40).

Complications arose following the Total Knee Replacement among the patients belonging to this group. This answers the question as to the complications that obese patients might encounter after undergoing TKR.

However, in the same study, it has been noted that the risk for complication can be minimized by delaying surgery until obesity and other modifiable risk factors are reversed. While obese patients are at risk for complications when undergoing the procedure, the case is not totally hopeless. In fact, the case can be remedied and these patients can still continue with their treatment with less risk. The risks can be minimized through best practices. This calls for experienced and reliable professionals. If the surgeons employ best practices and proven strategies, they can maximize patient outcomes and surgical success, as well as minimize risk for serious complications among obese patients. In other words, the key to lowering or totally eliminating the risk for such patients during and following TKR is to have the procedure conducted only by trusted and proven professionals.

So if you are obese and you have knee problems, don’t consider yourself as a hopeless cause. You can still have your knee issue fixed without having to worry about serious complications following the knee replacement. As already said, it’s just a matter of employing best practices With the right preparation and right measures before, during a and after the procedure, you will have a successful TKR operation. To reiterate, the key to a successful surgery is a reliable, trustworthy and experienced surgeon.

If you are obese and are having doubts whether to continue with the procedure or not, give us a call. You do not have to look further to find the right surgeon who can ensure a successful, risk-free procedure. We know exactly what needs to be done and what’s appropriate for you and your condition. Our surgeon has the right experience, expertise, knowledge, practices and passion for this kind of procedure to work. Make an appointment with us today for a consultation.

Filed Under: knee replacement, Total Knee Replacement Tagged With: complications, Obesity, tkr

Experience Matters: Find the Right Surgeon for Knee Replacement

June 16, 2017 By Stefan D. Tarlow MD

Find Knee Replacement surgeon

Being experienced is always an edge. Experience is highly important to the success of any endeavour, especially technical ones like medical procedures and surgeries. Knee surgery like unicompartmental knee replacement is specific and technical, and requires not just skills and expertise, but most importantly practice and experience. This is why it matters that you choose a surgeon with specific experience in performing the above mentioned procedure.

Before we tackle the importance of experience to the success of a knee replacement, let us understand the basics of unicompartmental knee replacement or arthoplasty first. This surgical procedure is also known as partial knee replacement, as opposed to total knee replacement (TKR). This procedure is most commonly used to treat and relieve arthritis affecting the knee. If the knee is not totally damaged but only parts thereof such as the medial, lateral or kneecap; only the damaged knee compartment or parts are replaced. This surgery has shorter recovery period and reduced post-operative pain. However, if the whole knee, that is, all the three compartments are damaged, the best solution is total knee replacement.

Whether it’s partial or total knee replacement, it does not take away the fact that the procedure is highly specialized. Not all surgeons perform these procedures. Only those with the special training and education can perform the same. This explains why there are knees-only surgeons.

Now you have a picture of what it takes to perform unicompartmental knee replacement successfully. Training, background and skills are important. But constant practice and experience are even more important. This is how you test whether the surgeon is better or not, this is what separates a best surgeon from the better or the good. With this, it is helpful if you look into the track record of the surgeon and see how many times has he done this type of surgery and what is his success rate. To be sure, you can go directly to a knees-only surgeon.

Knees-only surgeons are focused on treating knee injuries and other related problems. Their training is highly specialized. But again, not all knees-only surgeons are the same although they may have the same level of training and background. What sets a great doctor apart is his experience. We again emphasize the importance of experience when you choose a surgeon to perform a unicompartmental knee replacement or any knee surgery for that matter. The surest way to a successful procedure and fast recovery is through an experienced knees-only surgeon in Arizona.

If you are in need of one, you don’t need to go far. Contact TarlowKnee today and schedule your appointment.

Filed Under: knee replacement Tagged With: knee replacement

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