When facing a procedure, it is easy to start overthinking and worrying about a thousand questions, such as: Will this fix my joint? Will I recover my everyday life? Could I get disabled if things go south? Every one of these questions comes from fear, as well as a lot of myths around surgery. Today, Dr. Berkman, our total knee replacement surgeon, will clear our doubts about myths and facts regarding knee replacement surgery.
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Myth #1: Knee Replacement Surgery is Only for Elderly People
When residents of Bellaire, Texas, hear about knee stiffness or pain, they often envision an elderly individual. However, the reality is that age alone is not a determinant for requiring a medical procedure or surgery. While it is acknowledged that advancing years may significantly increase the likelihood of needing repair for certain joints, age should not be regarded as a restricting factor. A total knee replacement surgeon will propose the appropriate intervention based on the patient’s pain levels and functional impairments.
The majority of patients undergoing total knee replacement are between the ages of 50 and 80 years. Nonetheless, orthopaedic surgeons have also performed total knee replacements on a wide age range, from young teenagers with juvenile arthritis to elderly patients suffering from degenerative arthritis.
Myth #2: Your Knee Will Be Stiff and Will Feel Unnatural Permanently After The Procedure
Implants have significantly evolved over the years. In discussions regarding knee replacement surgery, it is important to clarify that we are not referring to prosthetics such as wooden legs; rather, we are emphasising the utilisation of advanced implants and techniques that aim to restore near-natural knee function. Many patients achieve improved mobility, facilitating daily activities and participation in low-impact sports.
There are evident reasons why your knee may not feel or function exactly as your natural knee, particularly following surgery. Our distinguished total knee replacement surgeon, Dr. Berkman, asserts that the majority of patients are satisfied with the long-term results of the procedure. However, the rehabilitation process can be extensive and may require physical therapy to restore knee mobility fully.
Myth #3: The Implant Can Be Rejected by Your Body
Your body doesn’t reject implants like it might with an organ transplant. Most of the time, everything will go smoothly after the procedure. However, the implant can react negatively in certain situations.
Your total knee replacement surgeon, Dr. Berkman, explains that if a problem arises after the intervention, it could be due to:
- Inadequate bone integration with the implant, particularly when healing conditions aren’t optimal
- Metal allergies, such as nickel sensitivity, though these are exceedingly rare since most implants are made from titanium, a bio-inert and biocompatible material
- Accumulation of wear debris (tiny particles from the implant) over many years, which can lead to bone weakening
However, these aren’t rejection reactions; they’re the body’s response to changes over time. Regular check-ups, prompt symptom reporting, and proper post-operative care can help prevent complications and address any issues early.
Your Total Knee Replacement Surgeon in Bellaire, Texas
A total knee replacement isn’t something to take lightly—such a procedure always carries some level of risk, but the potential outcome makes it worthwhile. Your total knee replacement surgeon, Dr. Berkman, understands the complexities both inside and outside the operating room and knows how to minimize every possible complication. With patience, dedication, and guidance from our healthcare team, you can return to a full, active life within a year. Dr. Berkman will guide you through your recovery journey, providing the expertise needed for a smoother, more successful outcome.
If you have any questions or concerns, schedule an appointment with our Total Knee Replacement Surgeon, Dr. Eric Berkman, MD, through this link.
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