Almost every aspect of knee replacement surgery – from the quality of the implant to incision sizes to pain management techniques – has improved over the last 15 years to deliver better patient outcomes. Patients who undergo knee replacements now can expect to see big benefits from medical advances, including:
Longer-Lasting Implants
The quality of the artificial knee has improved dramatically over the last couple of decades. New devices use crosslinked ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene, a specialized plastic that lasts for much longer than before. In the past, small bits of plastic might wear off the implant, triggering inflammation and damage in the new joint. Now the plastic wears much more slowly, helping implants last 25 to 30 years.
Uncemented knee implants also allow for faster surgeries while still creating a firm fit. These implants don’t require cement when placing components into the bone, saving your surgeon a step and preserving more bone for the future.
Types of implants are also giving patients more options for a custom fit. Different types of metal may be used if you have metal allergies. Different sizes of implants can ensure the new knee matches your anatomy as closely as possible.
Computer Navigation Technology for Precise Cuts
New computer navigation systems are also allowing for personalized fits. Navigation technology creates a 3-D model of the knee to determine exactly how much damaged bone to remove for a great fit. A grinding tool attached to the computer is accurate to .2 millimeters and stops grinding if the tool is moved away from the area that needs cutting.
This technology also helps our surgeons choose the right size implant for your knee. This not only improves the feel of your knee, but reduces the time spent in surgery selecting the implant.
Pain Management Techniques Improve Comfort
Both surgery time and recovery time have been shortened thanks to advances. New pain management techniques speed recovery time and reduce how much anesthesia is used during knee replacement surgery. In addition to localized nerve blocks, long-acting numbing medicines can be placed directly into the knee tissue during surgery. These medicines help block pain sensations for up to three days and control discomfort with less oral or IV pain medicine.
Another medicine, tranexamic acid, helps prevent blood loss in the knee. The medicine helps blood clot more quickly as it hits the air, leading to less bleeding and a lower risk of blood transfusion. It also reduces how much blood is in the knee tissue, which can reduce inflammation and pain.
Together, these advancements in knee replacement surgery are leading to a much better patient experience in the short- and long-term. As technology continues to progress, patients can expect outpatient surgeries, less pain, faster recovery, and a better artificial joint.
