Which Common Knee Surgery Procedure is Best for Me?
Knee surgery doesn't have to be scary. We've mapped out the most common injuries and surgeries to help you better understand your condition and potential treatments.
Why Does My Knee Hurt?
You may have chalked up knee pain to general aches. Some folks experience popping and cracking of knees. Others can feel pain radiating from the inside or back of the knee. Pinpointing where you are feeling the most discomfort can help your doctor better diagnose a treatment plan. If you're feeling knee pain in your daily activities when walking, sitting, or standing it could be the result of one of the following knee injuries.
Knee Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis in the knee. While most common with those above the age of 50, it can occur in younger people as well. Osteoarthritis is the gradual wearing away of the cartilage in the knee joint.
Meniscal Tears and Injuries
The menisci are pieces of cartilage in your knee that provide a cushion between your shin and thigh bone. One of the most common knee injuries, a torn or damaged meniscus results in a popping sensation, pain, swelling, and difficulty straightening out your knee.
ACL or PCL Injury
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of four ligaments connecting the shin bone to the thigh bone. ACL injuries are tears of this ligament, common amongst athletes in sports requiring sudden changes of direction.
A torn ACL or PCL is typically accompanied with a loud popping sound, severe pain, swelling, and a feeling that your knee "gives way." A torn ACL or PCL is a painful but common injury and should be treated immediately.
Knee Bursitis
Knee bursitis is the inflammation of the bursa, which is a small sac of fluid cushioning the outside of the knee joint allowing tendons and ligaments to glide smoothly over the joint.
Fractures
Fractures or breaks in the knee bones can occur from large impacts, typically car accidents or falls. Fractures are more common in those with osteoporosis whose bones are typically weaker.
Patellar Tendinitis
Patellar tendinitis is irritation and inflammation of the patellar tendon, connecting the quadriceps muscle to the shin bone. Runners, skiers, and cyclists are prone to developing patellar tendinitis.
What Procedures Will Heal My Knee?
For patients experiencing knee pain, the following surgeries and procedures are the most popular fixes to common injuries.
Knee Arthroscopy
Knee arthroscopy is a common, minimally invasive procedure that is used to diagnose and treat many knee joint problems. The procedure consists of small incisions around the joint. Because the procedure is less invasive than traditional surgery, patients typically experience quicker results and resume daily activities sooner.
Total Knee Replacement Surgery
Total knee replacement is a procedure in which we replace an arthritic knee joint with a knee prosthesis/ artificial joint. Traditionally this procedure is performed in a hospital setting, however, at Alexander Orthopaedics, this procedure is often performed in the outpatient setting.
ACL & PCL Surgery
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) are crucial to keeping your knee joint in place. They both connect your femur and tibia.
The ACL and PCL reconstruction procedure involves small incisions around the knee and uses your own tissue or donated tissue to restore the affected ligament. Patients are typically able to return home quickly following surgery.
Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction (MPFL)
The medial patellofemoral ligament attaches your kneecap (patella) to your femur. When this ligament is injured, your kneecap may start to chronically dislocate. This can be an uncomfortable and painful experience and restrict simple movement like walking or even standing upright.
Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction (MPFL) is an outpatient procedure performed as part of a minimally invasive knee arthroscopy.
Is your knee pain affecting your quality of life? The team at Alexander Orthopedic Associates is eager to help you. Our skillful physicians work collaboratively with patients, from diagnosis to treatment, helping you make informed decisions about your care. Call or schedule an appointment today. We are happy to answer your questions and connect you with a physician. Our commitment is to give you the best orthopedic care experience, alleviate pain and restore your quality of life.
