Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Knee Replacement Surgeon

June 25, 2023 By Stefan D. Tarlow MD

When it comes to finding the right knee replacement surgeon, the decision is of utmost importance. Knee replacement surgery is a complex procedure that requires expertise, precision, and skill. The outcome of the surgery can have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life, mobility, and overall well-being. Therefore, it is crucial to carefully evaluate and consider various factors before making a well-informed decision. In this article, we will discuss the key factors individuals should consider when selecting a knee replacement surgeon. By understanding these factors, you can make a confident choice and ensure the best possible outcome for your knee surgery.

Surgeon’s Qualifications, Specialization, and Robotics

a person holding a pen to a model of a knee

The first and foremost factor to consider is the surgeon’s qualifications and specialization. Look for a surgeon who is board-certified in orthopedic surgery and has received advanced training in knee replacement procedures. A qualified surgeon has undergone rigorous education, residency, and fellowship programs to gain the necessary skills and knowledge. The top surgeons remain committed to lifelong learning and adapting technologies that improve patient success. Surgical Robotics has modernized knee replacement surgery techniques and greatly improved patient function and satisfaction from knee replacement surgery.

Furthermore, it is essential to ensure that the surgeon specializes in knee replacement surgery. Knee replacement is a specialized area within orthopedics, and surgeons who focus on this field are more likely to have extensive experience and expertise. By choosing a surgeon with a specific focus on knee replacement, you can benefit from their in-depth knowledge and refined surgical techniques.

Years of Experience

a group of surgeons performing knee surgery

Experience plays a vital role in the success of knee replacement surgery. While the qualifications are essential, the number of years a surgeon has been performing knee replacements can provide valuable insight into their expertise. A seasoned knee replacement surgeon has likely encountered a wide range of cases and complications, allowing them to refine their skills and improve patient outcomes over time.

When researching potential surgeons, inquire about their experience in performing knee replacement surgeries. Ask about the number of procedures they have completed and their success rates. A surgeon with a substantial amount of experience will instill confidence in their ability to handle your case effectively.

Track Record of Successful Outcomes

Jeff Van Raaphorst Testimonial for Dr. Tarlow

The track record of successful outcomes is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a knee replacement surgeon. Look for surgeons who have a proven history of positive results and patient satisfaction. This information can be obtained through patient testimonials, reviews, and references from previous patients.

In addition, consider researching the surgeon’s complication rates and revision surgery rates. A low rate of complications and revision surgeries indicates the surgeon’s ability to perform the procedure with precision and minimize potential risks. A successful track record demonstrates not only the surgeon’s technical skills but also their commitment to delivering the best possible outcomes for their patients.

Communication Style and Patient Care

knee replacement surgeon talking to a patient

Effective communication and compassionate patient care are key factors in ensuring a positive surgical experience. A knee replacement surgeon who takes the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and explain the procedure clearly and understandably can significantly reduce anxiety and build trust.

During your initial consultation, pay attention to the surgeon’s communication style. Do they actively engage with you? Do they address your concerns adequately? Do they provide you with realistic expectations? A surgeon who demonstrates excellent communication skills and shows genuine care for their patients is more likely to provide comprehensive pre-operative and post-operative support.

Availability of Post-Operative Support

The postoperative phase of knee replacement surgery is crucial for a successful recovery. The availability of post-operative support from the surgeon and their team is an essential factor to consider. Adequate follow-up care, physical therapy guidance, and access to rehabilitation services can significantly contribute to your rehabilitation and overall outcome.

Inquire about the post-operative support provided by the surgeon. Ask about the follow-up visits, rehabilitation programs, and any additional resources they offer to support your recovery journey. A surgeon who prioritizes post-operative care and provides ongoing support demonstrates their commitment to your well-being beyond the surgery itself.

Patient Reviews and Recommendations

Patient reviews and recommendations can provide valuable insights into a knee replacement surgeon’s reputation and patient satisfaction. Look for online platforms where patients share their experiences and ratings. Reading through these reviews can give you a better understanding of the surgeon’s strengths, weaknesses, and overall patient care.

Additionally, don’t hesitate to ask the surgeon for references from previous patients who have undergone knee replacement surgery. Speaking directly with someone who has been through the process can provide firsthand information about the surgeon’s skills, professionalism, and overall patient experience.

Conclusion

Choosing the right knee replacement surgeon is a decision that should not be taken lightly. By considering the key factors discussed in this article—surgeon’s qualifications and specialization, years of experience, track record of successful outcomes, communication style, availability of post-operative support, and patient reviews, you can make an informed choice that increases the likelihood of a successful surgery and a positive outcome.

Stefan D. Tarlow, M.D. is a knee replacement surgeon who possesses all these important qualities. We invite you to visit him at tarlowknee.com. Doctor Tarlow is a highly skilled and specialized knee replacement surgeon who is committed to providing the highest quality care and delivering excellent outcomes for his patients. With our team’s expertise, experience, and patient-centered approach, we strive to help you regain mobility and improve your quality of life.

Remember, your choice of a knee replacement surgeon can make a significant difference in your surgical experience and the long-term success of your knee replacement. Make an informed decision and trust your knee health to the best.

The Knee MD of Phoenix

May 29, 2022 By Stefan D. Tarlow MD

Did you have a sports injury and tore your ACL? Maybe you have end-stage osteoarthritis with limited mobility or stiffness? Dr. Tarlow is an expert in surgical reconstruction and wants to help you. Whether it’s a nagging pain from an old sports injury that never felt quite right or acute recent trauma, once you hit a threshold of knee pain that interferes with your ability to engage in everyday activities, it’s time to seek medical attention.

Dr. Tarlow is an early adopter of robotic outpatient joint replacement. This enables some people to be treated with a partial knee replacement rather than full knee replacement.

Who Needs A Knee MD?

Choosing a knee specialist is essential for your rehabilitation and recovery from fresh knee injuries. The nature and severity of your injury will determine the treatment plan, which could fall on a spectrum of care from physical therapy and bracing to a total knee replacement. If you’ve recently stabilized a significant knee injury, meeting with a knee MD orthopedist specializing in knee care should be at the top of your to-do list.

Sometimes, patients who suffer from knee pain wonder if they should see a rheumatologist or an orthopedic knee surgeon for treatment. Although both specialists focus on muscles, bones, and joints, orthopedic knee surgeons specialize in surgical treatments and manage care for fractures to heal. In contrast, rheumatologists focus on joint disorders treated with lifestyle modifications and medication. Meeting with your primary care physician and discussing your current symptoms and the duration of your knee pain will help your primary care doctor advise you on the best specialist for your treatment plan.

Why A Knee MD?

Some orthopedists are generalists; they treat patients who have problems with their bones or joints regardless of where on the body the pain originates. Other orthopedists are specialists and focus on only one area of anatomy. For example, you might have an orthopedic surgeon specializing in knee replacements, shoulder surgery, or hip care.

Whether you seek care from a general orthopedist or a specialist, all orthopedic surgeons undergo a rigorous academic course load and hands-on training. It takes four years to complete their undergraduate degree, successful performance on the MCAT, and four years of medical school. Next, doctors who become orthopedists ALSO complete five years of study at a major medical institution for their orthopedic residency, followed by a one-year specialized education in a fellowship program.

After fourteen years of academic study and live-patient training, a doctor may choose to specialize in one area of the body. That means they will become highly practiced in diagnosing and treating injuries sustained in that area of focus. For example, suppose you have knee pain and know it’s time to see a specialist. It makes sense to actively seek out a knee MD who is an expert on knee health and treatment options to diagnose and care for your knee correctly AND has “put in the reps” to be an expert in treatment options.

What Does An Orthopedic Knee Surgeon Do?

Contrary to what the title suggests, orthopedic knee surgeons do not just perform knee surgery. They are highly trained professionals able to diagnose and treat various bone conditions. If you have a musculoskeletal condition, know that surgery is only considered when more conservative treatment options have been attempted without success.

An orthopedic knee surgeon will meet with patients to diagnose musculoskeletal problems and create individualized care plans on any given day. Some days will call for monitoring rehabilitation of current patients, and some days an orthopedic knee surgeon may find that they have a full docket performing surgeries. It’s important to remember that even though “surgeon” might be in their title, performing surgery is not the only sort of patient care these specialists do during their workday.

Why Dr. Tarlow is known as the Knee MD of Phoenix

Knee surgery by Dr. Tarlow the Knee MD of Phoenix

Patient-centered care and surgical excellence are Dr. Tarlow’s Phoenix Practice hallmarks. Known as the knee MD of Phoenix, Dr. Tarlow has almost 35 years of orthopedic history, all focused on the knee. In addition to a deep understanding of treatment options, Dr. Tarlow is Arizona’s most practiced and well-versed MAKOplasty® surgeon, with over 1100 cases as of March 2021.

Dr. Tarlow is a pioneer of Outpatient Joint Replacement. His innovative work five years ago made this surgery an outpatient procedure for total and partial knee replacement with MAKOplasty®. No hospital stay means you are sleeping in your own bed with pain medication on-demand at your bedside. This fast-track back to your home keeps people in their regular routines with a faster return to everyday life and work.

Mako is changing how joint replacement surgeries are performed by providing each patient with a personalized surgical experience based on their specific diagnosis and anatomy. Dr. Tarlow then guides the robotic arm to execute that plan. Dr. Tarlow, the knee MD of Phoenix, is an enthusiastic early adopter of this transformative technology.

The knee MD of Phoenix is one of the nation’s most experienced and sought-after knee specialists. Serving patients from all walks of life, Dr. Tarlow has helped world-record-holding athletes compete after complete knee replacement surgery, and D1 collegiate athletes set records after successful knee surgery. In addition, he’s helped former athletes access an active lifestyle after old injuries kept them from enjoying life and weekend warriors that need help getting back to the activities they love.

The knee MD of Phoenix, Dr. Tarlow, believes that the blueprint for providing exceptional patient care with outstanding outcomes is personal treatment with direct access to your physician.

It’s a promise that you will enjoy access to a distinguished surgeon bringing first-rate surgical care in a one-on-one setting when you seek care from the knee MD of Phoenix.

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.

Knee Osteoarthritis Treatment Ranked for Pain and Function

September 7, 2018 By Stefan D. Tarlow MD

Non surgical treatment for osteoarthritis of the knee is most successful for mild to moderate disease. Usually the pain and function from severe knee OA requires partial or total knee replacement surgery.

Patients need to know how likely a particular treatment is. This study ranked the effectiveness of oral pill treatment and intra articular injections categorized based on pain symptom relief and knee function improvement.

The 3 most effective treatments for knee OA pain are Intra Articular steroid injection, oral ibuprofen and knee injection with Platelet Rich Plasma.

The 3 most effective treatments for knee OA functional limitations (limp, diminished walking ability) are non steroidal anti inflammatory medications – Naproxen, Diclofenac and Celecoxib.

The 3 most effective treatments for both knee pain and knee OA functional limitations are oral Naproxen pills, Intra Articular steroid injection and knee injection with Platelet Rich Plasma.

Of note, hyaluronic acid (also known as viscosupplementation) injections is at best in the lower half of the effectiveness scale. Similarly, Tylenol (acetaminophen) is not therapeutic.

This study can be found in the JAAOS, May, 2018.

Vitamin D, Knee Surgery and Sports

August 26, 2018 By Stefan D. Tarlow MD

Vitamin D has hypothetical and proven benefits for orthopedic surgery patients and athletes.

I advise my joint replacement patients to begin 800 IU of VitaminD3 one week prior to continuing for 3 weeks total due to theoretical benefits for reduced infection risk.

Vitamin D has been shown to increase muscle strength, reduced injury rates and improve sports performance.

Vitamin D is also known to be importance for bone metabolism.

Mortality Following TKA is Declining

July 13, 2018 By Stefan D. Tarlow MD

Research on outcomes for joint replacement surgery has led to targeted patient selection for Total Knee Replacement surgery. Risk factors for poor outcomes include obesity, uncontrolled diabetes, smoking and cardiovascular disease. Great emphasis has been placed on modifying risk factors PRIOR to knee replacement surgery. Many patients are willing undergo an intervention which lowers their chance for an adverse outcome. It appears that this approach is benefitting our patients.

There is an ongoing worldwide temporal decline in mortality following total knee arthroplasty. Improved patient selection and perioperative care and a healthy-population effect may account for this observation. Efforts to further reduce mortality following total knee arthroplasty should continue. Patients that are unable to be “optimized” should be offered alternative, non surgical treatments.

An article published in JBJS June, 2018 explored this topic.

Mortality data from 15 different countries following over 1.75 million total knee replacements formed the basis of this review. 30 and 90-day mortality were 0.20% and 0.39%. Both estimates have fallen over the 10-year study period.

Weight Loss Slowed Rate of Knee Degeneration

June 29, 2018 By Stefan D. Tarlow MD

A 4 year study using MRI to look at knees showed the rate of knee degeneration/wear. The more weight loss, the slower the rate of knee destruction. Another study showed that combining weight loss with exercise with dietary modification improved exercise tolerance (walking) and improved weight loss. Finally, the proportion of obese patients with artificial knees requiring repeat replacement surgery has increased dramatically over the last 10 years. Obese is a modifiable risk factor for failure of Total Knee Replacement that should be addressed prior to knee replacement surgery.

Unicondylar (Partial) Knee Replacement Comparable to Total Knee Replacement

June 15, 2018 By Stefan D. Tarlow MD

In properly selected patients with isolated, single compartment arthritis of the knee success at 2 years post op is similar. Young age, BMI > 30, and low surgeon volume are associated with decreased implant survivorship and higher failure rate.

Makoplasty Robotic Partial knee replacement is an great alternative to full knee replacement. Read this link and learn more.

Running Does Not Lead to Knee Arthritis

June 1, 2018 By Stefan D. Tarlow MD

A 2018 report in the JBJS found a lower incidence of knee and hip damage (osteoarthritis) in active marathon runners. 675 Marathoners were questioned. These runners on average had run for 19 years logging an average of 36 miles per week. Arthritis prevalence was only 9 % for runners vs. 18 % for the US population. Seven of the marathoners were able to keep running after hip or knee replacement surgery. So the question is why ? Is it lower BMI, better muscle mass, better bone density, or is impact loading exercise actually protective to our weight bearing joints. At this time, the answer is not known. What is known is that running is good for knees and hips.

Robotic Knee Replacement Trends

May 11, 2018 By Stefan D. Tarlow MD

A recent analysis of Utilization Trends show Robotic /Computer assisted Knee Replacement surgery is increasing in the US. Approximately 12 % of Knee replacement cases in 2015 up from 4 % in 2008. 29 % of Facilities (hospitals, ASC) and 17 % of Orthopedics Surgeons use robots/computers for hip or knee replacement surgery. This is the most recent data available and is from 2015.