Common Knee Surgeries

Surgical Options for Knee Pain

When conservative measures are no longer effective in treating pain and immobility, knee surgery may be recommended. In this blog, we will discuss the four most common types of knee surgery.

ACL Reconstruction

ACL reconstruction is typically performed when the ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) has been completely torn. This can happen due to a traumatic injury, such as a fall or a collision, or it can occur gradually over time due to degenerative changes in the joint.

ACL reconstruction surgery involves using a graft to replace the damaged ligament, secured with surgical screws and anchors. The surgery is typically performed using an arthroscope, a small camera that is inserted into the joint through tiny incisions. This allows the surgeon to see inside the joint and repair the damage with minimal disruption to the surrounding tissues.

Knee Replacement

The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons states that over 700,000 people in the United States undergo knee replacement surgery each year, making it one of the most common surgical procedures performed today. There are several reasons why someone may need a knee replacement, from osteoarthritis to extensive damage to their knee joints and post-traumatic arthritis.

The procedure can be done to one or both knees, though each knee is completed during separate surgeries. It involves replacing the damaged joint with an artificial one made from metal and plastic. The surgery usually takes about two hours and is performed under general anesthesia.

Lateral Release

Lateral release is performed when the kneecap is not tracking correctly, commonly caused by the overgrowth of bone outside the knee joint. This overgrowth is called lateral patellar facet syndrome, which can cause pain and discomfort.

The surgical procedure involves an incision on the outside of the knee and removing the overgrown bone. This will help relieve the knee joint's pressure and improve mobility.

Meniscetomies

Meniscectomies are performed to remove damaged or torn pieces of the meniscus (the shock-absorbing tissue within the knee joint).

A meniscectomy is a surgical procedure to remove all or part of the meniscus, a rubbery, C-shaped disc that cushions your knee. A meniscectomy may be performed to treat knee pain that doesn't respond to other treatments.

During a meniscectomy, your surgeon will make an incision in your knee and then remove the damaged part of the meniscus. In some cases, your surgeon may be able to repair the damage rather than remove it. This is typically done as an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day.

Knee Specialists in Fox Valley

If you are experiencing knee pain that has lasted longer than a week, you should schedule an appointment with an orthopedist as soon as possible. The sooner you address this problem, the better your chances that it can be taken care of with noninvasive, non-surgical treatments.

At Fox Valley Orthopedics, we can help you get back to a pain-free, comfortable life. If you have been dealing with aches and pains that have lasted for more than a week, don’t put off getting help another day. Call (630) 584-1400 today to schedule your appointment.