Orthopedic Knee Surgery? Is that like a knee replacement? My Grandmother had both her knees done. That full double knee replacement sounded like a drink at Starbucks to me. I had no idea what it entailed, so being the little researcher I am, I decided to investigate.

When looking at orthopedic knee surgeries, you might first want to ask if you are a good candidate for a less abrasive surgery called Arthroscopy. This procedure uses a small camera to examine smooth and rough areas, junked up joints, and loose debris that might be causing problems in the knee. This orthopedic knee surgery can sometimes alleviate the symptoms without having to do replacements.

Now if replacements are in your future, than you will be considering full or partial knee arthroplasty. Like most orthopedic surgeries, this procedure helps to fix deteriorating parts of the body in this case the knee from disease or injury. Luckily you do not have to take a trip to the junk yard to find new pieces like you would for a car. Orthopedic surgeons have bran new plastic or metal replacement pieces to use in place of bad or worn out tissue. And unlike car pieces, these amazing replacement pieces have an estimated leg life of up to twenty years if taken care of properly. Orthopedic knee surgery aims to alleviate pain and help with mobility and functionality.

Like anything else there are risks with orthopedic knee surgery. Studies have found that you can get blood clots in your legs. I always wondered why my grandmother had to wear such tight stockings after her knee surgeries, but come to find out support stockings and blood thinning medications help fend off the blood cloths. Other risks might include not as much use or motion from the knee as you might have hoped, stiffness, or in rare occasions dislocation that needs further surgery.

Now when you are planning for your post orthopedic knee surgery stay, you may want to pack for at least 1-7 days. This timeframe depends on if you have anyone to take you home and help you out, and how healthy you are. It is said that you will not be able to put your whole weight on your knee for at least six weeks, and even then you will need a cane. Everyone has their own rate of healing. It could take 3 months or it might take a slow and gradual change to recovery.

The follow up for orthopedic knee surgery is usually a program that includes some sort of rehab for the new knees. Again, this helps avoid stiffness, and increase mobility.

If you are wondering about the cost of orthopedic knee surgery, some health insurance companies cover it. Make sure you check with your health provider. Then the only thing you will have to decide is whether you want to go for a partial orthopedic knee surgery, or if you are ready for the full treatment. Of course your surgeon will advise you here. For more information contact Associates In Orthopaedics