Total Knee Replacement
Total Knee Replacement Surgeon in Colorado Springs, CO
A total knee replacement is a surgery to replace diseased or damaged knee joint with an artificial knee joint made of materials, such as metal or plastics. Michael Van Manen, Do provides diagnosis and individualized non-operative and operative treatment plans in Colorado Springs, CO. Michael Van Manen, Do also provides highly specialized care during and after surgery. Contact Michael Van Manen, Do’s office for an appointment today!
Severe knee arthritis can make everyday activities such as walking, climbing stairs, standing, or getting out of a chair increasingly difficult. When knee pain and loss of function persist despite conservative treatments, total knee replacement in Colorado Springs may be considered to relieve pain and restore mobility.
Michael Van Manen, DO, is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon serving patients in Colorado Springs with a clinical focus that includes knee arthritis, total knee replacement, total joint replacement, and revision joint replacement. He provides individualized evaluations and treatment for patients experiencing persistent knee pain and limited function caused by degenerative joint conditions.
If chronic knee pain is interfering with your daily activities or quality of life, an experienced Colorado Springs knee replacement surgeon can evaluate your condition and discuss available surgical and nonsurgical treatment options.
What is Total Knee Replacement?
Total knee replacement, also called total knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure in which the worn out or damaged surfaces of the knee joint are removed and replaced with an artificial prosthesis.
What is Knee Arthritis?
The knee is made up of the femur (thighbone), tibia (shinbone) and patella (kneecap). The two menisci, the soft cartilage between the femur and tibia, serve as a cushion and help absorb shock during motion. Arthritis (inflammation of the joints), injury or other diseases of the joint can damage this protective layer, causing extreme pain and difficulty in performing daily activities in an arthritic knee, the cartilage itself becomes thinner or completely absent. In addition, the bones become thicker around the edges of the joint and may form bony “spurs”. These factors can cause pain and restrict the range of motion in the joint.
What are the Indications for Total Knee Replacement?
Total knee replacement surgery is commonly indicated for severe osteoarthritis of the knee. Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis. It is the most common form of knee arthritis in which the joint cartilage gradually wears away and often affects the elderly. Your doctor may advise total knee replacement if you have:
- Severe knee pain limits your daily activities (such as walking, getting up from a chair or climbing stairs)
- Moderate-to-severe pain that occurs during rest or awakens you at night
- Chronic knee inflammation and swelling that is not relieved with rest or medications
- Failure to obtain pain relief from medications, injections, physical therapy or other conservative treatments
- A bow-legged knee deformity
How is the Total Knee Replacement Procedure Performed?
The goal of total knee replacement surgery is to relieve pain and restore the alignment and function of your knee.
- The surgery is performed under spinal or general anesthesia. Your surgeon will make an incision in the skin over the affected knee to expose the knee joint. Then, the damaged portions of the femur bone are cut at appropriate angles using specialized jigs. The femoral component is attached to the end of the femur with or without bone cement.
- Your surgeon then cuts or shaves the damaged area of the tibia (shinbone) and the cartilage. This removes the deformed part of the bone and any bony growth, as well as creates a smooth surface on which the implants can be attached. Next, the tibial component is secured to the end of the bone with bone cement or screws.
- Your surgeon will place a plastic piece called an articular surface between the implants to provide a smooth gliding surface for movement. This plastic insert will support the body’s weight and allow the femur to move over the tibia like the original meniscus cartilage.
- The femur and the tibia with the new components are then put together to form the new knee joint.
- To make sure the patella (kneecap) glides smoothly over the new artificial knee, its rear surface is also prepared to receive a plastic component.
- With all the new components in place, the knee joint is tested through its range of motion. The entire joint is then irrigated and cleaned with a sterile solution. The incision is carefully closed; drains are inserted and a sterile dressing is placed over the incision.
What Does Postoperative Care for Total Knee Replacement Involve?
Rehabilitation begins immediately following the surgery. A physical therapist will teach you specific exercises to strengthen your leg and restore knee movement. Knee immobilizers are used to stabilize the knee. You will be able to walk with crutches or a walker. A continuous passive motion (CPM) machine can be used to move the knee joint. Continuous passive motion is a device attached to the treated leg that constantly moves the joint through a controlled range of motion, while you are at rest. Your physical therapist will also provide you with a home exercise program to strengthen your thigh and calf muscles.
What are the Risks and Complications of Total Knee Replacement?
As with any major surgery, the possible risks and complications associated with total knee replacement surgery include:
- Knee stiffness
- Infection
- Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis)
- Nerve and blood vessel damage
- Ligament injuries
- Patella (kneecap) dislocation
- Plastic liner wearing out
- Loosening of the implant
Why Choose Dr. Michael Van Manen, DO for Total Knee Replacement in Colorado Springs?
Total knee replacement is an important decision that requires careful evaluation of your symptoms, joint damage, overall health, and functional goals. Choosing an orthopaedic surgeon with experience in knee arthritis and joint replacement can help you understand whether surgery is appropriate and what treatment options are available.
Michael Van Manen, DO is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon serving patients in Colorado Springs, Colorado. His areas of practice include total knee replacement, total hip replacement, hip and knee arthritis management, revision joint replacement, fracture care, and general orthopaedics.
As part of Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group's joint replacement team, Dr. Van Manen provides individualized care for patients with painful and degenerative hip and knee conditions. Treatment recommendations are based on the patient's diagnosis, symptoms, imaging findings, activity level, and overall health.
When nonsurgical treatments no longer provide sufficient relief for severe knee arthritis, total knee replacement may be an appropriate option. Dr. Van Manen can evaluate your knee and discuss whether joint replacement or another treatment approach best fits your needs.
Total Knee Replacement FAQs
What is total knee replacement?
Total knee replacement, or total knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that replaces damaged surfaces of the knee joint with artificial components. It is commonly performed to treat severe knee arthritis that causes persistent pain and limits function.
When is total knee replacement recommended?
Knee replacement may be considered when severe knee pain and stiffness significantly interfere with everyday activities and conservative treatments such as medications, injections, physical therapy, and activity modification have not provided adequate relief.
What are the symptoms of severe knee arthritis?
Symptoms may include persistent knee pain, stiffness, swelling, reduced range of motion, difficulty walking or climbing stairs, and pain that interferes with sleep or occurs during periods of rest. Some patients may also develop changes in the alignment or appearance of the knee.
What causes knee arthritis?
Knee arthritis can develop for several reasons. Osteoarthritis is a common cause and involves gradual deterioration of the joint's protective cartilage. Previous injuries, certain inflammatory conditions, and other factors can also contribute to degeneration of the knee joint.
How is knee arthritis diagnosed?
An orthopaedic evaluation generally includes a review of your symptoms and medical history, a physical examination, and imaging such as X-rays. These findings help your surgeon evaluate the condition of the joint and determine an appropriate treatment plan.
What happens during total knee replacement surgery?
During total knee replacement, the damaged surfaces of the femur and tibia are prepared and replaced with artificial components. A plastic insert provides a smooth surface between the components, and the kneecap may also be resurfaced when appropriate. The components are positioned and the knee is tested through its range of motion before the incision is closed.
What is recovery like after total knee replacement?
Recovery varies from person to person. Rehabilitation generally begins soon after surgery, with exercises designed to restore knee movement and strengthen the muscles surrounding the joint. Your healthcare team will provide instructions regarding walking, exercises, wound care, medications, and progression of activities.
Will I need physical therapy after knee replacement?
Physical therapy is an important part of recovery for many patients following total knee replacement. A physical therapist can provide exercises and guidance to help improve range of motion, strength, balance, and functional mobility.
How long does a knee replacement last?
The longevity of a knee replacement varies based on factors such as the implant, activity level, age, overall health, and other individual circumstances. Artificial knee components can wear or loosen over time, and some patients may eventually require revision surgery.
What are the risks of total knee replacement?
Like any major surgical procedure, total knee replacement carries potential risks. These may include infection, blood clots, stiffness, nerve or blood-vessel injury, ligament or soft-tissue injury, problems involving the kneecap, implant wear, and loosening of the components. Your surgeon will discuss the potential risks and benefits specific to your situation.
Can knee arthritis be treated without surgery?
Yes. Depending on the severity and cause of knee arthritis, nonsurgical options may include activity modification, physical therapy, medications, injections, weight management when appropriate, and other conservative treatments. Surgery may be considered when symptoms remain significant despite appropriate nonsurgical care.
How do I know if I am a candidate for total knee replacement?
A consultation with an orthopaedic surgeon can help determine whether knee replacement is appropriate. Your surgeon will consider your pain and functional limitations, physical examination, imaging, previous treatments, overall health, and treatment goals before making a recommendation.
Where can I see a knee replacement surgeon in Colorado Springs?
Michael Van Manen, DO practices with Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group and serves patients at its Colorado Springs locations. Contact the practice to confirm the current office location and appointment availability.
Schedule a Total Knee Replacement Consultation in Colorado Springs
If knee arthritis is making it difficult to walk, exercise, climb stairs, or enjoy your everyday activities, an orthopaedic evaluation can help you understand your treatment options. When conservative care no longer provides adequate relief, total knee replacement in Colorado Springs may offer an option for addressing severe joint damage and persistent pain.
Michael Van Manen, DO provides comprehensive hip and knee orthopaedic care, including total knee replacement and joint replacement, in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
Contact Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Van Manen and discuss whether total knee replacement or another treatment option may be appropriate for your knee condition.
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