Pontchartrain Bone and Joint Clinic

Knee Replacement Surgery | Metairie & Destrehan

When knee pain progresses to the point that all facets of daily life such as jogging, walking, and standing still are affected, a total knee replacement procedure may be the best option. If arthritis has not spread throughout the entire knee joint, a partial knee resurfacing procedure may be applicable. Arthritis can degrade cartilage in the knee joint, while a traumatic injury can lead to devastating pain – both conditions necessitating surgical intervention.

Advances in minimally invasive surgery techniques, implants, and procedures have made total knee replacement procedures safer and more reliable, as well as reduced recovery time. According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, modern knee replacement procedures hold a success rate between 90% and 95%.

Knee Anatomy

The knee joint is made up of three components: the femur (thighbone), tibia (shinbone), and patella (kneecap). Cartilage, ligaments, muscles, and tendons run through and surround the knee joint, providing stability and support. A wedge of cartilage called the meniscus sits between the femur and tibia, and acts as a shock absorber for the joint, keeping the two bones from coming into contact. A gel-like coating of smooth tissue called the synovial membrane also covers all bone surfaces to provide lubrication and smooth range of motion.

Total Knee Replacement

In a total knee replacement surgery, the entire damaged knee joint is removed and replaced with an artificial knee joint made of metal alloys, plastics, and ceramic components. During knee replacement surgery, damaged portions of bone are removed from the femur and tibia to accommodate the artificial knee implant. The implant is fitted within the femur and tibia and secured either with cement, or by friction.

Partial Knee Resurfacing

Partial knee resurfacing procedures, a potential alternative to knee replacement, allow surgeons to correct the degenerative damage caused by arthritis, without having to replace the entire knee joint. Cartilage plays a vital role in a properly functioning knee by providing a gel-like coating on bone surfaces that would otherwise rub against one another, creating painful and damaging friction. Utilizing minimally invasive surgical techniques, surgeons pinpoint areas of the knee containing damaged cartilage, while leaving the healthy portion of the knee untouched.

Knee Replacement Specialists

For over 30 years, the staff of board-certified orthopedic surgeons, pain management specialists, physical therapists, and support staff at the Pontchartrain Bone and Joint Clinic have been serving the New Orleans area from their offices in Metairie and Destrehan. With specialties ranging from total knee replacement and partial knee resurfacing procedures to minimally invasive surgical techniques and sports medicine, each patient can expect the best possible orthopedic care available.

Find out more about Pontchartrain Bone and Joint Clinic and how to make an appointment at their offices in Metairie and Destrehan.