Name of the Procedure:

Common name: Knee Joint Offset Addition
Medical term: Addition to lower extremity, offset knee joint, each joint (L2390)

Summary

The addition to the lower extremity procedure involves modifying the knee joint to include an offset, which helps to improve alignment and stability. This is typically done to aid in better movement and reduce discomfort in the knee.

Purpose

This procedure is designed to address misalignment or instability in the knee joint. The main goals are to improve joint function, enhance stability, reduce pain, and increase the overall mobility of the lower extremity.

Indications

• Chronic knee pain not relieved by conservative treatments
• Knee instability or subluxation
• Difficulty in knee flexion or extension
• Conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or congenital deformities
• Patients who have had previous knee surgery and require further correction.

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for a specific period before the procedure.
• Review of current medications with the doctor; some medications may need to be stopped or adjusted.
• Pre-procedure assessment including physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies like X-rays or MRI.

Procedure Description

1. The patient will be positioned and sedated or given general anesthesia.
2. The surgical area is cleaned and sterilized.
3. An incision is made over the knee joint.
4. The existing knee joint structures are adjusted.
5. An offset component is added to the knee joint to improve alignment.
6. The incision is closed with sutures or staples, and a bandage is applied.

Tools used may include surgical knives, clamps, specialized knee implants, and possibly imaging equipment for guidance.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 1-2 hours depending on the complexity.

Setting

Usually performed in a hospital or surgical center.

Personnel

• Orthopedic surgeon
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical nurse
• Possible support staff such as scrub technicians and recovery room nurses.

Risks and Complications

Common risks:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Swelling and bruising

Rare risks:

• Blood clots
• Nerve damage
• Mechanical failure of the implant
• Adverse reactions to anesthesia

Complications management may include antibiotics for infection, medications for pain and swelling, and physical therapy.

Benefits

• Improved knee alignment and stability
• Reduced pain
• Enhanced mobility and function of the knee
• Shorter recovery times compared to more invasive surgical options

Benefits are often realized within a few weeks to months, depending on individual recovery rates.

Recovery

• Post-procedure care includes monitoring for signs of infection, pain management, and wound care.
• Physical therapy is generally prescribed to aid in recovery.
• Recovery time can range from a few weeks to a few months.
• Restrictions on strenuous activities during the recovery period.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and joint function.

Alternatives

• Physical therapy and bracing
• Medications for pain and inflammation
• Arthroscopic surgery to address specific knee issues
• Total knee replacement

Each alternative has its pros and cons. For instance, physical therapy is less invasive but may not provide sufficient relief, while total knee replacement is more comprehensive but comes with higher risks and longer recovery.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient will be under anesthesia and should not feel pain. Post-surgery, there may be pain, swelling, and discomfort which can be managed with medication. Physical therapy exercises may cause some initial pain but will aid in quicker recovery. Comfort measures such as ice packs and elevation of the leg can also help in managing post-procedure symptoms.