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Orthopedic Group, Inc |
Total Knee Replacement
Knee pain is one of the most common orthopedic complaints of American adults. Causes of knee pain include traumatic sports injuries, as well as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. While noninvasive methods to alleviate pain are always preferred over surgery, oftentimes surgical intervention is the only option to restore patients to their previous levels of activity. Total knee replacement is an approach orthopedic surgeons have used since the 1960s in the United States and have perfected in terms of procedure and prosthetics. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, AAOS, reports that 90-95% of total knee replacement surgeries are successful in restoring the function of the joint and alleviating the pain associated with the afflicting condition.
You don't have to live with chronic knee pain. Total knee replacement is performed to get you back to your active lifestyle and alleviate any pain you are experiencing. Take the time to learn about total knee replacement surgery and find out more by scheduling an office visit with our team of experienced orthopedic surgeons in Pawtucket, Bristol, and Lincoln, Rhode Island, or in Attleboro, Massachusetts. Anatomy of the KneeThe knee is comprised of three main bones: the tibia (shinbone), the femur (thighbone), and the patella (knee cap). These three bones are connected with tissues and tendons, including the ACL (anterior cruciate ligament), PCL (posterior cruciate ligament), and the MCL (medial collateral ligament). Cartilage called the meniscus lines the knee joint, providing cushion when the bones glide against each other. A soft tissue called synovium lines the knee joint and produces a lubricating fluid that helps reduce friction.When any one of these components of the knee functions improperly, severe pain can arise. Osteoarthritis is a condition in which the synovium produces less lubricating fluid, causing significant joint pain. Damage to a ligament in the knee results in loss of knee function and pain. Depending on the severity of your knee injury, a total knee replacement may be suggested. Total Knee Joint Replacement SurgeryOrthopedic surgeons have been performing total knee replacement surgeries in the United States since the 1960s with great success. Currently, knee replacement surgery is one of the safest types of major surgeries being performed. Knee replacement involves removing the affected knee joint and replacing it with a new prosthetic made to mimic the function of a natural knee. The artificial joint is made using a variety of metals and high-grade plastics, and over the years, knee implants have been engineered to function and feel just like a healthy human joint.Performing Total Knee Replacement SurgeryTo perform a total knee replacement surgery, the surgeon will incise the front of the knee, cutting through the tissue surrounding the muscle and bone. The surgeon will move the kneecap out of the way to openly expose the joint and determine proper placement of the new implant. The surgeon then makes precise cuts to the femur, allowing the prosthetic to fit into place on top of the natural bone.The end of the tibia is then shaved down to a flat surface, sized to fit the new prosthetic components. A metal component is placed on top of the tibia, after which a plastic component snaps on, allowing the implant to move like a natural joint. Depending on the severity of the knee joint’s damage, the kneecap may also be cut flat and replaced with a plastic component. The surgeon will use a material called bone cement to ensure the implant remains properly in place. Before the incision is closed, the surgeon will perform a series of tests to ensure the knee joint’s longevity. After a total knee replacement, individuals may begin walking again as soon as four weeks after surgery. Physical therapy can help patients return to their active lives more quickly. Find out about OGI’s physical therapy facilities » Find out about scheduling an appointment at OGI’s offices in Pawtucket, Bristol, & Lincoln, Rhode Island or Attleboro, Massachusetts » |
Pawtucket Office • 588 Pawtucket Ave. • Pawtucket, Rhode Island 02860 • Toll Free: (800) 725-3037 • Tel: (401) 722-2400
Lincoln Office • 6 Blackstone Valley • Place Building 5, Suite 530 • Lincoln, Rhode Island 02865 • Tel: (401) 334-3700
Attleboro, MA Office • 16 Hillside Ave. • Attleboro, Massachusetts 02703 • Tel: (508) 222-4450
Bristol Office • 1180 Hope Street • Bristol, Rhode Island 02809 • Tel: (401) 722-2400