Our Summary

This research paper looks at how different surgical techniques affect the success of total knee replacement (TKR) surgeries. TKR is a common fix for severe knee arthritis. The study compares traditional surgical methods with a newer approach using patient-specific instruments (PSIs), which are designed based on the patient’s own body scan.

The study evaluated two groups of 20 patients who had undergone TKR surgery. One group had the surgery done using the PSIs and the other group had the surgery done using traditional instruments. The researchers measured the angles of the patients’ knees before and after the surgeries to see how well the replacement knee was aligned.

The results showed that there was no significant difference in alignment between the two groups. However, the group that had the surgery with PSIs had fewer cases where the alignment was off by more than 3 degrees.

In simple terms, this study suggests that using patient-specific instruments in total knee replacement surgery may give a better fit and alignment, leading to fewer cases with major misalignment. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.

FAQs

  1. What is the difference between traditional knee replacement surgery and the surgery using patient-specific instruments (PSIs)?
  2. What were the key findings of the study comparing traditional knee replacement methods and the use of patient-specific instruments?
  3. Does the use of patient-specific instruments in total knee replacement surgery always result in better alignment?

Doctor’s Tip

Based on this research, a doctor might advise a patient undergoing knee replacement surgery to inquire about the use of patient-specific instruments for a potentially more precise alignment of the replacement knee. This could potentially lead to a better outcome and lower risk of complications post-surgery. It’s always important to discuss all options and potential benefits with your healthcare provider before undergoing any surgical procedure.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for knee replacement surgery are those who have severe knee arthritis or injury that causes significant pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. These patients may have tried other non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, medications, and injections without success. Additionally, patients who have difficulty performing daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, and getting in and out of chairs may also be recommended for knee replacement surgery.

It is important for patients to discuss their individual case with their healthcare provider to determine if knee replacement surgery is the best option for them. Additionally, the use of patient-specific instruments in knee replacement surgery may be beneficial for certain patients, as suggested by the research paper mentioned above.

Timeline

Before knee replacement surgery, a patient typically experiences chronic knee pain, stiffness, swelling, and limited mobility. They may have tried conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications, and injections with little to no relief. After consulting with their orthopedic surgeon, the decision is made to proceed with knee replacement surgery.

During knee replacement surgery, the damaged cartilage and bone in the knee joint are removed and replaced with an artificial implant. The surgery usually takes a few hours, and the patient is then taken to a recovery room for monitoring.

In the immediate post-operative period, the patient may experience pain, swelling, and stiffness in the knee. Physical therapy is started soon after surgery to help the patient regain strength, flexibility, and mobility in the knee.

Over the next few weeks and months, the patient continues with physical therapy and gradually increases their activity level. Pain and swelling typically decrease, and the knee becomes stronger and more stable. The patient is able to return to normal activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, and driving, with significantly reduced or no knee pain.

Overall, knee replacement surgery can greatly improve a patient’s quality of life by relieving chronic pain and restoring mobility in the affected knee.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about knee replacement surgery include:

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with knee replacement surgery?
  2. What is the expected recovery time and rehabilitation process after surgery?
  3. How long can I expect the knee replacement to last?
  4. Will I need physical therapy after surgery, and for how long?
  5. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  6. Will I need to make any modifications to my lifestyle or daily activities after the surgery?
  7. Are there any alternative treatments or surgical approaches that I should consider?
  8. How many knee replacement surgeries have you performed, and what is your success rate?
  9. Will I need any special equipment or assistive devices after the surgery?
  10. What can I do to prepare for the surgery and optimize my outcomes?

Reference

Authors: Gemalmaz HC, Sarıyılmaz K, Ozkunt O, Sungur M, Kaya I, Dikici F. Journal: Acta Orthop Traumatol Turc. 2019 Sep;53(5):323-328. doi: 10.1016/j.aott.2019.02.001. Epub 2019 Mar 8. PMID: 30853398