Comprehensive Orthopedic Knee Services in Phoenix: From Total to Partial Replacements

Knee pain can significantly impact daily activities, making tasks like walking, climbing stairs, or enjoying hobbies challenging. Arizona Specialty Hospital offers a range of orthopedic knee services tailored to address varying degrees of knee discomfort and impairment for those seeking relief in Phoenix. Understanding the available treatment options, from non-surgical interventions to partial and total knee replacements, help when making informed healthcare decisions.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Many patients explore non-surgical treatments to alleviate knee pain before considering surgical interventions. These may include physical therapy, medications, lifestyle modifications, and injections. However, surgical options might be the next step when these approaches no longer provide adequate relief.

Partial Knee Replacement

Partial knee replacement, or unicompartmental knee arthroplasty, involves replacing only the damaged portion of the knee joint while preserving healthy bone and tissue. Potential benefits of partial knee replacement include:

• Quicker Recovery: Patients often experience a faster return to daily activities compared to total knee replacement.
• Less Pain After Surgery: The minimally invasive procedure may reduce postoperative discomfort.
• Lower Risk of Complications: There is generally less blood loss and a decreased risk of infection and blood clots.
• More Natural Knee Function: Preserving healthy parts of the knee can lead to a more natural feeling during movement.

It's important to note that while partial knee replacement can be adequate, some patients may require additional surgery if arthritis or other symptoms develop in other areas of the knee.

Total Knee Replacement

For individuals with extensive knee joint damage affecting multiple compartments, total knee replacement (total knee arthroplasty) may be recommended. A total knee replacement procedure involves resurfacing the ends of the thighbone and shinbone and replacing the entire knee joint with prosthetic components. The goals of this procedure include:

• Pain Relief: Alleviating chronic knee pain that limits daily activities.
• Improved Mobility: Enhancing the ability to perform routine movements with greater ease.
• Enhanced Quality of Life: Enabling patients to return to activities they enjoy without the limitations imposed by knee pain.

Recovery from total knee replacement varies among individuals. Most patients resume normal activities within six weeks, although complete recovery may take several months.

Robotic-Assisted Knee Surgery

Arizona Specialty Hospital utilizes robotic-assisted technology, such as the Mako Robotic Arm, to perform partial and total knee replacements. Our robotic systems allow surgeons to create a personalized surgical plan based on a 3D model of the patient's knee anatomy. During the procedure, the surgeon guides the robotic arm to remove diseased bone and cartilage with precision, which helps contribute to:

• Accurate Implant Placement: Enhanced precision in implant positioning can contribute to better alignment.
• Potential for Reduced Pain: Some patients report experiencing less postoperative pain than traditional methods.
• Quicker Recovery: The minimally invasive approach may facilitate a faster return to daily activities.

It's important to understand that while robotic-assisted surgery offers potential benefits, individual outcomes can vary, and not all patients are candidates for this technology.

Determining the Right Treatment

Choosing between partial and total knee replacement depends on various factors, including the extent of joint damage, overall health, and lifestyle goals. A comprehensive evaluation by an orthopedic specialist at Arizona Specialty Hospital can help determine the most appropriate treatment plan tailored to individual needs.

Take the Next Step

If knee pain affects your quality of life, Arizona Specialty Hospital's orthopedic team is here to help. We offer a range of knee services, from non-surgical treatments to robotic-assisted partial and total knee replacements. Contact us to schedule a consultation and explore the options best suited to your condition.

Sources:

• Mayo Clinic. "Robotic Orthopedic Surgery - Overview." | https://www.mayoclinic.org/departments-centers/robotic-orthopedic-surgery/overview/ovc-20472153
• Cleveland Clinic. "Partial Knee Replacement: What It Is & Recovery Time." | https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/14599--partial-knee-replacement
• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. "Unicompartmental (Partial) Knee Replacement." | https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/treatment/unicompartmental-knee-replacement/
• Cleveland Clinic. "Knee Replacement: Surgery Details & Recovery." | https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/8512-knee-replacement
• Arizona Specialty Hospital. "Mako Robotic Arm." | https://arizonaspecialtyhospital.com/Mako-Robotic-Arm