Name of the Procedure:

Arthroplasty, knee, condyle and plateau; medial OR lateral compartment

Summary

Arthroplasty of the knee for the condyle and plateau involves surgical resurfacing or replacement of the damaged cartilage and bone in either the medial (inner) or lateral (outer) compartment of the knee joint. This procedure helps restore function and alleviate pain in individuals with severe knee damage.

Purpose

The procedure addresses conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or severe knee trauma that result in pain, stiffness, and impaired knee function. The goal is to relieve pain, enhance mobility, and improve the quality of life for the patient.

Indications

• Persistent knee pain and swelling not relieved by non-surgical treatments
• Significant joint stiffness and reduced mobility
• Severe arthritis or cartilage damage in either the medial or lateral compartment
• Failed previous knee surgeries or treatments
• Knee deformity impacting function

Preparation

• Fasting for at least 8 hours before the surgery
• Adjustments or cessation of certain medications, as advised by the doctor
• Preoperative physical examination and imaging tests like X-rays or MRI to assess the knee condition
• Blood tests and other evaluations to ensure fitness for surgery

Procedure Description

1. Administration of regional or general anesthesia.
2. An incision is made over the knee.
3. The damaged cartilage and bone in the affected compartment (medial or lateral) are removed.
4. Artificial components made from metal and plastic are fixed to the remaining healthy bone.
5. The knee joint is carefully aligned to ensure proper positioning.
6. Incision is closed with sutures or staples, and the knee is dressed and bandaged.

Tools include surgical saws, drills, and specialized prosthetic components.

Duration

Typically, the procedure takes about 1 to 2 hours.

Setting

This surgery is performed in a hospital or a specialized surgical center.

Personnel

• Orthopedic Surgeon
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical Nurses
• Surgical Technicians
• Postoperative Care Staff

Risks and Complications

• Infection at the surgical site
• Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism)
• Nerve or blood vessel damage
• Prosthesis issues like loosening or wear
• Stiffness or reduced knee mobility
• Pain or persistent discomfort

Benefits

• Significant pain relief
• Improved knee function and mobility
• Enhanced quality of life and ability to perform daily activities
• Longevity of knee joint function with proper care

Recovery

• Initial hospital stay of 2-3 days
• Pain management with medications
• Physical therapy starting shortly after surgery to aid in recovery and mobility
• Use of assistive devices (walker, crutches) during early recovery
• Avoiding high-impact activities until fully healed
• Follow-up appointments for monitoring healing and prosthetic function

Alternatives

• Non-surgical treatments (physical therapy, medication, steroid injections)
• Partial knee replacement if damage is less extensive
• Arthroscopy for minor repairs
• Conservative management with lifestyle modifications
• Weight loss and exercise to reduce knee strain

Patient Experience

• During the procedure, the patient will not feel pain due to anesthesia.
• Postoperative discomfort is managed with medications.
• Physical therapy can be challenging but is crucial for recovery.
• Gradual improvement in knee function with adherence to rehabilitation guidelines.