Knee Surgery: Which Procedure Is Right for You?
Living with knee pain can significantly reduce your quality of life, affecting everything from climbing stairs to simply walking around the mall. Fortunately, modern knee surgery offers renewed hope for anyone with a debilitating knee condition. Our orthopaedic surgeons specialise in various techniques tailored to each patient’s unique needs, and in this article, we explain the different surgeries we offer.
Types of Knee Surgery: Understanding Your Options
Arthroscopic Surgery
Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive form of surgery typically performed as a day procedure. Using small incisions and a miniature camera, surgeons can diagnose and treat various knee conditions, including meniscal tears, torn ligaments, and osteoarthritis. Recovery is relatively quick, with most patients returning to light activities within days and full function within four to six weeks.
Partial Knee Replacement
For patients with arthritis limited to one compartment of the knee, partial knee surgery presents an excellent option. This procedure preserves healthy bone and tissue while replacing only the damaged portion of the knee. Advantages include:
- Less bone removal
- Smaller incision
- Faster rehabilitation
- More natural feeling knee
- Shorter hospital stay (typically 1-2 days)
Total Knee Replacement (TKR)
When osteoarthritis affects multiple compartments of the knee, TKR becomes the option of choice. In this procedure, all articulating surfaces are replaced with prosthetic components. Modern implants can last 15-20 years or longer, offering an effective long-term solution for those with severe arthritis.
The procedure typically requires:
- 2-3 days in hospital
- 6-12 weeks of rehabilitation
- Gradual return to normal activities over 3-6 months
Robot-Assisted Surgery
Robot-assisted surgery on the knee is the cutting edge of orthopaedic innovation. Using advanced computer mapping and robotic precision, this technique allows for:
- Personalised implant positioning
- Enhanced accuracy
- Less soft tissue damage
- Potentially improved longevity of implants
Dr de Vos offers a state-of-the-art robot-assisted procedure to suitable candidates, placing him at the forefront of orthopaedic technology in South Africa.
How to Determine Which Surgical Option Is Right for You
Four main factors influence which form of surgery may best suit your needs:
- Age and activity level: Younger, more active patients may benefit from less invasive procedures like arthroscopy or partial knee replacement when possible. For older patients with significant arthritis, total knee surgery typically provides the most reliable long-term outcome.
- Extent of damage: The location and severity of the knee damage determine appropriate surgical intervention. Isolated damage may be suitable for arthroscopy or partial replacement, while more widespread pathology typically necessitates a total replacement.
- Recovery considerations: Your lifestyle, support system, and ability to participate in rehabilitation will influence surgical recommendations. Arthroscopy offers the quickest recovery, partial knee surgery an intermediate option, and total knee replacement the longest rehabilitation period.
- Medical fitness: Your overall health affects surgical candidacy, particularly for more extensive procedures like total knee replacement. Conditions like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease require careful pre-operative management to ensure safe outcomes.
Making an Informed Decision
A successful procedure begins with a comprehensive assessment and honest discussion about goals and expectations. When conservative measures like physiotherapy, medication and weight loss no longer provide adequate relief, it’s time to explore surgical options with a specialist experienced in the full spectrum of knee surgery techniques. Book a consultation today and secure your return to pain-free mobility.