Knee Replacement with Western Orthopedics
The knee is a joint which has three parts and can sometimes require a replacement. These include the thigh bone (femur), the shin bone (tibia) and the kneecap (patella). The femur meets the tibia forming the main joint. This joint has an inner (medial) and outer (lateral) compartment. The patella joins the femur to create the third joint.
The knee joint is surrounded by a joint capsule. Ligaments strap the inside and outside of the joint, as well as crossing within the joints. These ligaments provide stability and strength for the joint.
There is also a meniscus between the femur and tibia. This gives cushioning, so the bones can move with the least possible friction. There are also air sacs called bursae surrounding the joint. They act as gliding surfaces.
Below the patella, there is a large tendon (patellar tendon). This joins onto the front of the tibia. The knee also rotates slightly under the guidance of specific muscles in the thigh.
The knee is a complex joint which consists of:
- Bone
- Cartilage
- Ligaments
- Tendons
They make joint movements easy. But at the same time, this can mean they are more susceptible to various kinds of injuries. Knee problems may arise if any of these structures are injured. This can happen through overuse or sports activities. Pain, swelling, and stiffness are common symptoms of any damage or injury to the knee.
Orthopedic Knee Surgery
There are many types of orthopedic knee surgery available at Western Orthopedics. You can book a consultation with Dr Pavitar Sunner. He has the tools and training for any knee replacement.
Total Knee Replacement (TKR)
A total knee replacement (TKR) or total knee arthroplasty is a surgery that resurfaces the arthritic knee joint. This is done with artificial metal or plastic replacement parts called ‘prostheses’.
Partial Knee Replacement
Partial knee replacement means that only a part of the knee joint is replaced. This is done through a smaller incision than would normally be used for a total knee replacement.
Knee Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy is a surgical procedure in which an arthroscope is inserted into a joint. Arthroscopy is a term that comes from two Greek words. ‘Arthro’, meaning joint, and ‘skopein’, meaning to examine. The benefits of arthroscopy involve:
- Smaller incisions
- Faster healing
- More rapid recovery
- Less scarring
Arthroscopic surgical procedures are often performed on an outpatient basis. The patient is able to return home on the same day.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Reconstruction
The anterior cruciate ligament is one of the major stabilising ligaments in the knee. It is a strong rope like structure located in the centre of the knee running from the femur to the tibia. When this ligament tears, it does not heal. This can often lead to a feeling of instability in the knee.
ACL reconstruction of the hamstring tendon and patellar tendon is a surgical procedure. With recent advances in orthopedic arthroscopic surgery, it can now be performed with minimal incision. There are low complication rates.
Computer-assisted Knee Replacement
A total knee replacement surgery is the last resort to relieve pain. This also restores function in a knee damaged by arthritis or an injury. This type of surgery is required when non-surgical treatments do not work.
Knee Surgeon Sydney
Dr Pavitar Sunner is a knee specialist in Sydney. He is Western Orthopedics’ principal orthopedic surgeon.
In 1989, Dr Sunner completed his Medical Degree at the University of Sydney. Since then, he has completed additional training and a fellowship in Winnipeg, Canada.
Dr Sunner returned to Penrith in 2002. This is where he started his private practice, Western Orthopaedics. He continues to research new procedures and improve his methods. This is to ensure that you can walk away from any orthopedic surgery completely healed and satisfied. Check out this article regarding achieving the best orthopedic surgery recovery.
Orthopedic Replacement Quiz
Designed by Western Orthopedics, you can take the knee quiz. This will help you to understand your knee condition and what treatment or surgery you may need. There are 16 questions which will help to determine the best possible knee replacement solution.
Take the knee quiz today to see how Western Orthopedics can help you.
