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Orthopedic surgeons are medical professionals who specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal conditions. Among the most common procedures these specialists perform are knee surgeries, given the critical role the knee plays in everyday movements. Knee surgery can involve a variety of techniques, depending on the condition being treated. An Orthopedic Surgeon in Houston, Texas approach to knee surgery is guided by factors such as the patient’s overall health, the specific knee condition, and the desired outcomes.

Understanding Knee Surgery

Knee surgery is often necessary when conservative treatments, such as physical therapy, medications, or injections, fail to relieve pain or improve function. Knee conditions that may require surgical intervention include osteoarthritis, ligament injuries (such as ACL tears), meniscus tears, fractures, and patellar malalignment. The choice of surgical procedure depends on the nature of the injury or condition, the patient’s age, and their activity level.

Eric F Berkman MD – Top Rated Orthopedic Surgeon in Houston, Texas. Specializing in treating various orthopedic conditions of shoulder, elbow, knee, hand, and foot and ankle. Orthopedic injuries are common in motor vehicle accidents, sports and in daily activities. He offers a comprehensive and high quality medical care for his patients. Dr Berkman offers the best possible treatment and utmost care to each individual to restore freedom of movement and relieve the pain of diseased and degenerative joints.

Initial Assessment and Diagnosis

Before deciding on knee surgery, orthopedic surgeons conduct a thorough evaluation. This includes taking a detailed medical history, understanding the patient’s symptoms, and performing a physical examination. Imaging studies, such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans, are commonly used to assess the knee’s internal structures. These images help the surgeon evaluate the extent of damage to bones, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons.

Surgeons also consider non-surgical treatments before recommending surgery. These may include medications to manage pain, physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the knee, or injections like corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid to reduce inflammation and improve mobility. Surgery is typically viewed as a last resort when other treatments fail.

Surgical Techniques

There are several different types of knee surgeries, and orthopedic surgeons tailor their approach based on the specific condition. Some of the most common knee surgeries include:

Arthroscopy: This minimally invasive procedure involves making small incisions around the knee to insert a tiny camera (arthroscope) and surgical instruments. Arthroscopy allows the surgeon to inspect the knee joint and perform repairs, such as removing damaged tissue or repairing a torn meniscus. Because it is less invasive, arthroscopy typically results in shorter recovery times and less postoperative pain.

Knee Replacement (Arthroplasty): For severe arthritis or extensive joint damage, knee replacement may be necessary. In this procedure, the damaged portion of the knee is replaced with an artificial prosthesis. The surgeon may perform a partial knee replacement, where only the damaged area is replaced, or a total knee replacement, which replaces the entire joint. This procedure is often recommended for patients whose pain is significantly affecting their quality of life.

Ligament Repair or Reconstruction: In cases of ligament injuries, such as an ACL tear, orthopedic surgeons may perform a ligament repair or reconstruction. This may involve using a graft (tissue from another part of the patient’s body or a donor) to replace the damaged ligament. The recovery from ligament surgery can be lengthy and requires a comprehensive rehabilitation program to restore strength and stability.

Meniscus Repair: Meniscus tears are common knee injuries, especially in athletes. In some cases, a tear can be repaired through arthroscopic surgery. However, if the tear is too severe, a portion of the meniscus may need to be removed. Preserving the meniscus is crucial for long-term knee function, as it helps with shock absorption and joint stability.

Postoperative Care and Recovery

After knee surgery, the orthopedic surgeon will provide a comprehensive recovery plan that includes physical therapy, pain management, and activity restrictions. Physical therapy is crucial for regaining strength, flexibility, and mobility in the knee. The recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery, but patients can generally expect to need several weeks to months to return to normal activities.

Orthopedic surgeons prioritize minimizing complications, such as infections or blood clots, by monitoring the patient closely in the weeks following surgery. Follow-up appointments are critical to ensure the knee is healing correctly.

Orthopedic surgeons play a crucial role in helping patients with knee issues regain mobility and improve their quality of life. Their approach to knee surgery is comprehensive, involving careful assessment, precise surgical techniques, and thorough postoperative care. Whether treating sports injuries, arthritis, or other knee conditions, orthopedic surgeons use their expertise to provide tailored solutions that meet the individual needs of their patients, ensuring the best possible outcomes.