Total Knee Replacement in Colorado Springs, CO
Total knee replacement, also called total knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure used to replace damaged surfaces of the knee joint with artificial components. It is commonly considered for patients with advanced knee arthritis who have persistent pain and difficulty with everyday activities despite appropriate nonsurgical treatment.
If knee arthritis is making it difficult to walk, climb stairs, exercise, sleep comfortably, or perform routine activities, an orthopaedic evaluation can help determine whether total knee replacement in Colorado Springs may be appropriate. Dr. Tyler Bron, MD, a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon specializing in adult reconstruction and hip and knee conditions, provides specialized care for patients with degenerative knee problems and joint disease.
Tyler Bron, M.D.
Board-certified Orthopaedic SurgeonDr. Bron completed his fellowship in Adult Reconstruction, specializing in the treatment of arthritic hip & knee conditions at the University of Colorado in Aurora. He received specialized training in dealing with complex injuries of the hip and knee & has a particular interest in the treatment of hip arthritis through a muscle-sparing Anterior Approach. Dr. Bron works diligently with each & every patient to customize treatment plans & optimize outcomes to meet the patient’s individual goals.
During total knee replacement, damaged portions of the femur and tibia are prepared and replaced with prosthetic components. Depending on the individual procedure, the underside of the kneecap may also be resurfaced. Following surgery, rehabilitation focuses on restoring knee movement, strength, stability, and function.
Dr. Bron takes an individualized approach to joint replacement, considering the severity of arthritis, symptoms, activity level, overall health, and treatment goals when determining whether surgery is appropriate. When conservative measures no longer provide adequate relief and knee arthritis substantially affects quality of life, total knee replacement may be an option.
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 that 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 growths, 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. Tyler Bron for Total Knee Replacement in Colorado Springs?
Choosing an orthopaedic surgeon for total knee replacement is an important decision. Dr. Tyler Bron, MD, provides specialized adult reconstruction care with a focus on hip and knee conditions and joint replacement.
Board-Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon
Dr. Bron is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon specializing in adult reconstruction. He completed his medical education at the University of Kansas School of Medicine, orthopaedic surgery residency training through the University of Kansas/Wichita, and adult reconstruction fellowship training through the University of Colorado.
Specialized Joint Replacement Expertise
Dr. Bron specializes in hip and knee replacement and the treatment of arthritic joint disease. His practice includes total and partial knee replacement, revision surgery, and other treatments for degenerative knee conditions.
Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement Experience
Dr. Bron has additional training and experience with robotic-assisted knee replacement technology, including the Mako robotic-arm system. When appropriate, technology-assisted surgery may be incorporated into an individualized surgical plan.
Individualized Treatment Planning
Total knee replacement is not automatically the first treatment for knee arthritis. Dr. Bron considers symptoms, functional limitations, imaging findings, previous treatments, overall health, and personal goals when discussing whether knee replacement is appropriate.
Focus on Patient Communication
Dr. Bron emphasizes listening to patients and maintaining an open dialogue about their condition and treatment goals. Patients can discuss both nonsurgical and surgical options before making decisions about joint replacement.
Total Knee Replacement FAQs
Total knee replacement, or total knee arthroplasty, is a procedure in which damaged portions of the knee joint are removed and replaced with prosthetic components. The goal is to reduce pain and improve knee function.
Total knee replacement may be considered when advanced knee arthritis causes significant pain and limitations with everyday activities and appropriate nonsurgical treatments have not provided sufficient relief.
Severe osteoarthritis is the most common reason for total knee replacement. Other forms of arthritis, previous injuries, and certain conditions that cause substantial joint damage may also lead to consideration of knee replacement.
Potential signs include persistent knee pain, pain during rest or at night, significant stiffness, swelling, reduced mobility, difficulty walking or climbing stairs, and difficulty performing normal activities. Your orthopaedic surgeon can determine whether these symptoms are related to advanced arthritis and whether replacement is appropriate.
During surgery, the damaged surfaces of the knee are prepared and replaced with artificial components designed to restore the joint's function and alignment. The exact surgical technique and implants used vary according to the patient's anatomy and circumstances.
Modern knee replacements can provide durable pain relief and function for many years, but implant longevity varies. Factors such as activity level, body weight, implant type, surgical technique, and overall health can influence how long a replacement lasts.
Rehabilitation begins soon after surgery. Patients typically work with a physical therapist or follow a prescribed rehabilitation program to restore knee movement, strength, balance, and function. Recovery varies from person to person, and your orthopaedic team will provide individualized guidance.
Physical therapy and rehabilitation are important parts of recovery for many patients. Exercises help restore range of motion and strengthen the muscles supporting the knee. Your rehabilitation program will be tailored to your progress and functional needs.
Robotic assistance is a surgical technology that may help the surgeon with planning and execution of certain knee replacement procedures. It is not appropriate or necessary for every patient, and outcomes depend on many factors beyond the technology itself. Dr. Bron can determine whether robotic assistance may be appropriate for your individual procedure.
As with any major surgery, potential complications can include infection, blood clots, bleeding, stiffness, nerve or blood vessel injury, implant wear or loosening, instability, and persistent pain. Your surgeon will discuss the potential benefits and risks before surgery.
Some patients can manage knee arthritis with nonsurgical treatment, depending on the severity of their condition. Options may include physical therapy, activity modification, medications, injections, weight management when appropriate, and other measures. When these approaches no longer provide adequate relief, knee replacement may be considered.
Schedule a Total Knee Replacement Consultation in Colorado Springs, CO
If chronic knee pain is limiting your mobility and affecting your quality of life, an orthopaedic evaluation can help you understand your treatment options. Dr. Tyler Bron, MD, specializes in adult reconstruction and knee joint replacement for patients in Colorado Springs.
Contact Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group to schedule a total knee replacement consultation with Dr. Bron and discuss whether joint replacement may be appropriate for your knee condition and goals.
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