Orthopedic knee surgeons are specialists trained in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the knee joints. These surgeons are well-versed in multiple surgical procedures for addressing knee problems involving the bones, muscles, and connective tissues. Here are four surgeries an orthopedic knee surgeon can perform:
1. ACL Reconstruction
The ACL is a major ligament in the knee and may tear due to high-intensity sports or sudden pivoting movements that strain the knee. You may have an ACL tear if you feel a pop or snap with accompanying pain at the time of the injury. Significant swelling in the knee, instability, and pain when you put weight on the knee are other signs of an ACL tear. An ACL tear reduces the knee joint’s range of motion, impacting the efficiency of your daily activities.
During ACL reconstruction surgery, doctors replace the torn ligament with a graft sourced from your own tissue or a donor. The orthopedic knee surgeon makes one or two small cuts around the knee, through which they remove the torn ligament. The surgeon then places the graft in the same position as the ligament they removed, securing it with staples. After surgery, you must undergo rehabilitation to help regain stability in your knee.
2. PCL Reconstruction
The posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) keeps the bones in your knee in place and allows for back-and-forth movement. This ligament is the strongest one in the knee and rarely sustains injuries. It takes significant force to cause a PCL tear, such as a hard hit to the knee. The procedure for PCL reconstruction is similar to ACL reconstruction. Accidents that cause PCL tears often damage other ligaments in the knee. Orthopedic specialists may conduct surgery to fix the other ligaments and prescribe physical therapy and medication to aid in recovery.
3. Knee Replacement Surgery
Knee replacement surgery restores the functionality of knee joints that have been damaged by conditions like osteoarthritis. During the surgery, doctors replace the damaged knee joint with an artificial implant of similar structure and functionality. Depending on the severity of the joint damage, the orthopedic surgeon may perform a total or partial knee replacement.
During a total knee replacement surgery, doctors replace all the damaged components in the knee, including portions of the thigh and shin bones. Doctors recommend a partial knee replacement for damage that only affects a restricted portion of the knee. These procedures involve treating and replacing only the affected areas. You may need knee replacement surgery if you have arthritis and experience severe joint pain and mobility challenges.
4. Meniscal Repair
The meniscus is a crescent-shaped piece of knee cartilage that absorbs shock during movement and stabilizes the joint. Meniscus tears may occur when you twist or rotate your knee forcefully. You may hear a popping sound when you tear your meniscus. A torn meniscus may also feel like your knee is locked, making it difficult to move or straighten the knee.
Knee surgeons perform meniscal repair surgeries to preserve the cartilage and restore its function. Orthopedic doctors perform arthroscopic surgery for meniscus repair, which involves entering a small camera and other surgical tools into the operation area through small incisions. The camera gives the surgeon a clear view of the torn meniscus, allowing them to repair it without making a large incision. The minimally invasive nature of this procedure helps reduce the recovery time.
Meet with an Orthopedic Knee Surgeon
If you have a knee injury or joint damage, schedule a consultation with an experienced orthopedic knee surgeon. These professionals will assess your knee health to determine the most effective way to restore your joint’s function. A successful knee surgery can improve your range of motion and quality of life. Contact an orthopedic facility specializing in knee surgery today to learn more about their comprehensive treatment and postoperative rehabilitation services.
