Knee problems, whether due to age, injury, or degenerative conditions like arthritis, can be debilitating. When conservative treatments fail, surgical interventions like knee resurfacing become viable solutions. Knee resurfacing is a minimally invasive procedure designed to restore knee function and alleviate pain without the extensive replacement of all joint components. In this blog post, we will delve into what knee resurfacing entails, its benefits, and why it could be a better alternative to total knee replacement. We’ll also highlight the expertise of Dr. Saksham Mittal, a renowned knee resurfacing surgeon in Paschim Vihar.

What Is Knee Resurfacing?

Knee resurfacing, often referred to as partial knee replacement or unicompartmental knee arthroplasty, is a procedure where only the damaged portions of the knee joint are resurfaced rather than replacing the entire knee joint. The knee joint consists of three compartments: the medial (inner), lateral (outer), and patellofemoral (front). When arthritis or injury affects only one compartment, knee resurfacing is a highly effective treatment.

Unlike a full knee replacement that requires the removal of more bone and joint structures, knee resurfacing leaves much of the natural knee intact. This leads to a more natural range of motion and faster recovery time. It is particularly suitable for patients with localized arthritis or damage in a single compartment of the knee.

How Knee Resurfacing Works

In knee resurfacing, the damaged part of the knee cartilage is shaved off and replaced with metal and plastic implants. This prevents bone-on-bone friction that causes pain, allowing the knee to move smoothly again. The procedure involves:

1. Evaluation and Imaging: The surgeon assesses the knee’s condition using X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans to determine which compartment of the knee is damaged.
2. Preparation: During surgery, the knee is carefully exposed, and the surgeon removes the damaged cartilage and bone from the affected compartment.
3. Implant Placement: A metal cap is placed over the end of the femur, while a plastic spacer is fitted onto the tibia. These components act as a cushion, enabling smooth joint movement.
4. Wound Closure: The incision is closed, and the patient is prepared for recovery.

Who Is a Candidate for Knee Resurfacing?

Knee resurfacing is ideal for patients with localized osteoarthritis in just one of the knee’s compartments. People who might benefit from knee resurfacing include:

• Patients with early-stage osteoarthritis are confined to one compartment.
• Individuals who are not ready for a full knee replacement due to age or activity level.
• Active individuals who want to retain a more natural knee motion post-surgery.
• Those whose pain is moderate and who have tried other treatments like physical therapy or medication without success.

Dr. Saksham Mittal, a knee resurfacing surgeon based in Paschim Vihar, assesses each patient individually to determine whether they are good candidates for the procedure. His expertise ensures the best outcomes for his patients by carefully considering their knee condition, overall health, and lifestyle.

Benefits of Knee Resurfacing Over Total Knee Replacement

While both knee resurfacing and total knee replacement (TKR) address chronic knee pain and limited mobility, knee resurfacing offers several advantages:

1. Minimally Invasive: Knee resurfacing involves smaller incisions compared to total knee replacement, resulting in less damage to surrounding tissues and a quicker recovery time.
2. Preservation of Natural Knee Structure: Since only the damaged part of the knee is resurfaced, much of the natural knee structure is preserved, allowing for more natural movement post-surgery.
3. Faster Recovery: Patients undergoing knee resurfacing typically experience quicker rehabilitation, with many returning to normal activities, including sports, much sooner than after TKR.
4. Reduced Risk of Complications: Knee resurfacing carries a lower risk of complications such as infection or implant failure because of the more localized nature of the procedure.
5. Better for Younger Patients: For younger or more active patients, knee resurfacing allows for a higher level of post-surgical activity, as the procedure retains more natural knee mechanics.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery after knee resurfacing is generally faster than after a total knee replacement, with many patients being able to walk on the same day of surgery or within a few days. However, successful rehabilitation requires a commitment to physical therapy and exercises aimed at strengthening the knee and improving flexibility.

Here is a general timeline for recovery:

• Week 1–2: Patients may use crutches or a walker for support, but many can bear weight on the operated knee within a few days.
• Week 3–6: Physical therapy focuses on improving range of motion and strengthening the quadriceps and hamstrings.
• Month 3: Many patients can return to low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, or cycling.
• Month 6: Full recovery, including resumption of more rigorous activities like jogging or sports, is often achieved.

Dr. Saksham Mittal provides personalized recovery plans for each patient, ensuring that rehabilitation is tailored to individual needs, thus optimizing long-term results.

Potential Risks and Considerations

While knee resurfacing is generally safe and effective, it’s important to understand the potential risks involved:

1. Implant Wear: The implant may wear down over time, particularly in younger, more active patients.
2. Progression of Arthritis: Arthritis may spread to other compartments of the knee, necessitating further surgeries.
3. Infection and Blood Clots: As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection or blood clots, although this risk is lower in knee resurfacing compared to total knee replacement.

Consulting with a specialized surgeon like Dr. Saksham Mittal helps mitigate these risks. His extensive experience in knee resurfacing ensures that patients are well-informed and guided through every step of the process.

Why Choose Dr. Saksham Mittal for Knee Resurfacing?

If you’re experiencing knee pain and considering surgical intervention, Dr. Saksham Mittal is a highly skilled knee resurfacing surgeon in Paschim Vihar. With years of experience in treating complex knee conditions, Dr. Mittal specializes in both minimally invasive and traditional knee procedures, tailoring treatment to the specific needs of each patient. His patient-centered approach ensures that every individual receives the highest standard of care.

Whether you’re an athlete looking to regain mobility or someone dealing with the effects of arthritis, Dr. Mittal can offer the most advanced solutions to help you lead an active, pain-free life.

Conclusion

Knee resurfacing offers a viable and less invasive alternative to total knee replacement for those with localized knee damage. It allows patients to preserve much of their natural knee function, experience a quicker recovery, and enjoy long-term relief from knee pain. With the right surgeon, such as Dr. Saksham Mittal, the procedure can lead to outstanding results and a return to a healthy, active lifestyle. If you’re considering knee surgery and want to explore your options, consult with Dr. Mittal to see if knee resurfacing is the right choice for you.