Our knee specialist doctor mentions that the knee joint works as a biaxial mechanism that produces the movement of the leg (flexion/stretch), thanks to the intervention of the thigh muscles and the action exerted by the femur and tibia on the kneecap. In the same way, other components that provide stability (ligaments) and prevent bone wear and tear due to continuous friction (synovial fluid and articular cartilage) are involved in this system.
That is why when the knee joint has irreversible damage, the placement of a prosthesis not only allows the recovery of its functionality, but also provides effective pain relief.
Just as a damaged joint is solved with a prosthesis, there is a group of damages that can be repaired by knee arthroscopy; a minimally invasive surgical procedure effective in cases of:
Anterior or posterior cruciate ligament rupture.
Collateral ligament rupture.
Meniscus tear.
Misaligned kneecap.
Defective cartilage.
Bone or cartilage debris in the joint.
Damage to the synovial membrane.
During knee arthroscopy Small incisions are made in the knee, video equipment (arthroscope) is introduced, and a load of saline solution is injected to swell the area and make it easier to handle. Then the existing problem is repaired with the surgical instruments required for this purpose, the solution is drained and some stitches are applied; all this under local or general anesthesia.
On the other hand, knee arthroplasty consists of the surgical replacement of parts of the bone and cartilage in damaged femur, tibia and/or patella; placing in their place a metal and polymer prosthesis. Obviously, there are many models and types of knee prostheses, which are selected by the specialist based on the study of each clinical case.
Similarly, when reviewing the causes that can lead to knee replacement surgery; Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are among the main ones, especially in older adults.
However, meniscus or ligament injuries and tears are also part of the list of patients eligible for knee replacement.
Without a doubt, our specialists are perfectly qualified to offer multiple surgical treatment options that help correct a defective knee.
That is why the review of each clinical case and its subsequent guidance by the hand of a specialist; It will offer the ideal treatment option for each patient (which may or may not include a surgical alternative), but which will ultimately be aimed at improving functionality and eradicating pain.
In case of treatment of torn meniscus, ligament reconstruction or the placement of knee prostheses; Surgery can help the patient regain their mobility and thus their quality of life.
Our knee specialists are highly trained and have extensive experience diagnosing and treating knee diseases and injuries.
During consultations, the patient’s thorough evaluation is performed, including medical history, physical examination, and in some cases, imaging tests; in order to provide an accurate diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan for each patient.
In addition to surgical procedures, there are a variety of conservative treatments for knee problems. Among them we can mention:
Our knee specialists work collaboratively with physical therapists to design customized rehabilitation programs that help strengthen the muscles around the joint, improve mobility, and reduce knee pain.
In some cases, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or other medications may be prescribed to relieve pain and reduce inflammation in the knee.
These injections are used to reduce inflammation and temporarily relieve pain in the knee. In most cases, they are administered directly into the knee joint under the guidance of X-ray or ultrasound imaging.
Seeing a knee specialist is essential to receive an accurate diagnosis and opt for the right treatment for any knee-related problem. The knee specialist, in addition to having extensive experience and knowledge, is up to date with the latest techniques and advances related to this joint.
Treating a knee problem with a doctor who is not a specialist in the field can have negative consequences such as:
Incorrect diagnosis.
Ineffective treatment.
Increased risk of complications.
Delay in proper treatment.
Prolongation of recovery time.