Information for Patients & Caregivers

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Knee Surgery Options

Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy uses tiny instruments inserted into the joint through keyhole surgery. Damaged tissue can be removed or repaired within the joint providing relief from both pain and swelling while possibly preventing further damage to the knee.

Total Joint Replacement
Your surgeon may recommend joint replacement surgery if you have significant arthritis.  Joint replacement implants to resurface the joint are typically made from metal alloy and polyethylene (plastic). The implants are designed to restore function and eliminate as much discomfort as possible while allowing you to return to a more active lifestyle.

Rehabilitation and walking begin the day after surgery, and the hospital stay is normally 5 to 10 days. Physiotherapy will begin in the hospital and usually continues after discharge for approximately 6 to 12 weeks.

Joint Replacement surgery of the knee has been extremely successful in helping patients with arthritis return to their normal activities and relieves their discomfort.

Partial Knee Replacement
The knee is composed of three separate compartments. Osteoarthritis sometimes develops in only one compartment of the knee, while the other two compartments remain relatively healthy. Patients who have osteoarthritis in only one compartment may be candidates for partial knee replacement.

The advantage of a partial knee is that it resurfaces only the damaged cartilage of the knee, preserving the undamaged cartilage. The benefits of this procedure include a smaller incision (3, 4 inches), a quicker recovery, and less bone removal. Your surgeon will determine if a partial knee is appropriate for you.  To find further information on partial knee replacement, go to www.oxfordknee.net.

Individual results may vary. The life of any joint replacement will depend on your physical condition, activity levels, willingness to follow surgeon’s instructions, and other factors. Only an orthopedic surgeon can determine whether you are a candidate for joint replacement surgery.