Knee surgery is a common procedure, often recommended for patients dealing with knee injuries, arthritis, or degenerative conditions. Orthopedic Surgeon in Houston, Texas, specialized in the diagnosis, treatment, and surgical management of musculoskeletal disorders, play a critical role in addressing knee problems. Their approach to knee surgery involves a blend of detailed assessment, advanced surgical techniques, and a focus on rehabilitation, ensuring that patients return to their daily activities with improved function and minimal discomfort.
Understanding the Role of Orthopedic Surgeons in Knee Surgery
Orthopedic surgeons are highly trained medical professionals who treat a wide range of bone, joint, and soft tissue problems. When it comes to knee surgery, these specialists focus on restoring the knee’s functionality, alleviating pain, and improving the quality of life for patients. The knee, a complex joint made up of bones, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons, can be susceptible to a variety of injuries and conditions such as torn ligaments, meniscal tears, osteoarthritis, or fractures.
Eric F Berkman MD – Top Rated Orthopedic Surgeon in Houston, Texas. Specializing in treating various orthopedic conditions of shoulder, elbow, knee, hand, and foot and ankle. Orthopedic injuries are common in motor vehicle accidents, sports and in daily activities. He offers a comprehensive and high quality medical care for his patients. Dr Berkman offers the best possible treatment and utmost care to each individual to restore freedom of movement and relieve the pain of diseased and degenerative joints.
Before recommending surgery, orthopedic surgeons take a comprehensive approach to assess the patient’s condition. This process involves reviewing the patient’s medical history, performing a physical examination, and often ordering diagnostic tests such as X-rays or MRIs. These images help the surgeon understand the extent of the injury or damage, which is crucial for selecting the most appropriate treatment plan.
Approaches to Knee Surgery
Orthopedic surgeons use a variety of surgical techniques depending on the specific condition affecting the knee. Some common procedures include:
- Arthroscopy: Often referred to as minimally invasive surgery, arthroscopy allows surgeons to view the inside of the knee joint using a small camera (arthroscope) and perform repairs with tiny instruments. This technique is typically used for repairing meniscal tears, ligament injuries, or removing damaged tissue. Since it involves small incisions, the recovery time is usually shorter, and patients experience less pain compared to traditional open surgery.
- Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Reconstruction: The ACL is one of the key ligaments in the knee, and its rupture is a common injury, particularly in athletes. ACL reconstruction involves replacing the damaged ligament with a graft, usually taken from the patient’s own tissue or a donor. This surgery restores stability and function to the knee, allowing patients to return to high levels of activity.
- Total Knee Replacement (TKR): For patients with severe osteoarthritis or other degenerative conditions where the knee joint has been significantly damaged, total knee replacement may be necessary. This procedure involves removing the damaged joint surfaces and replacing them with artificial components. The goal is to reduce pain and improve mobility, making it one of the most effective surgeries for advanced knee conditions.
- Partial Knee Replacement: In cases where only one part of the knee joint is affected by arthritis or wear, a partial knee replacement may be considered. This procedure preserves the healthy parts of the knee and only replaces the damaged areas. It offers a quicker recovery time compared to total knee replacement and is an option for patients who are not yet candidates for full knee replacement surgery.
Post-Surgery Rehabilitation
After any knee surgery, rehabilitation is a critical aspect of the recovery process. Orthopedic surgeons work closely with physical therapists to design customized rehabilitation plans tailored to the patient’s needs. The goal is to restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion to the knee, while gradually increasing activity levels. This process is essential for ensuring that the surgery is successful and that patients can return to their normal activities with minimal complications.
Orthopedic surgeons play a pivotal role in knee surgery, using advanced techniques to address a variety of knee-related issues. Whether it’s through minimally invasive arthroscopy, ligament repair, or joint replacement, the goal is always the same: to reduce pain, restore function, and improve the quality of life for patients. With a comprehensive approach to diagnosis, surgery, and rehabilitation, orthopedic surgeons help individuals regain mobility and lead active, fulfilling lives.