Why do I need a joint replacement?
If you have a knee injury or chronic condition that just hasn’t responded to conservative therapies, it might be time to consider a total or partial knee replacement. You may be a candidate for a knee replacement if:
- You have a severe knee fracture
- You have chronic knee pain that isn’t improving
- Your arthritis has caused serious bone or tissue damage
A knee replacement may also be right for you if your knee injury or condition is starting to impact your quality of life negatively.
What happens during a joint replacement surgery?
As the name implies, a knee replacement surgery involves replacing damaged or injured components in your knee. Your procedure is tailored entirely to your specific needs and is typically performed while you’re under general anesthesia.
As an expert in arthroscopic surgery, Dr. Tadje specializes in minimally invasive knee replacement surgery. In most cases, he only needs to make a few small incisions where he can insert surgical tools.
During your knee replacement procedure, Dr. Tadje removes damaged cartilage and tissues from your femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone). He carefully positions the metal implants to recreate the surfaces of your joint and cover your bones.
The next step involves resurfacing the underside of your patella (kneecap). Once the components of your new knee joint are in place, Dr. Tadje inserts a cushioning spacer before reconnecting the soft tissues that support the joint. Once everything is in its proper position, he seals all incisions with sutures or surgical glue.
How long does it take to recover after a joint replacement?
Depending on your overall health and specific knee replacement surgery, Dr. Tadje could request that you stay in the hospital for a few days. During this time — and once you get home, too — it’s important to perform passive exercises to improve mobility and blood flow to the area.
You can usually start getting back into many of your regular light activities within about three to six weeks after surgery. Generally, by the three-month mark, you can return to most of your usual activities and some exercises. A full recovery from knee replacement surgery can take anywhere from six to twelve months.
Request your appointment with Tadje Orthopaedics by calling the office, or using the online booking tool.
