12 Knee Surgery Types To Know Before

Knee surgery is a medical procedure aimed at restoring function, alleviating pain, and improving the quality of life for individuals suffering from knee injuries or conditions. With advancements in medical technology and techniques, various types of knee surgeries have been developed to address different needs and conditions. Understanding the different types of knee surgeries is crucial for making informed decisions about treatment options. In this article, we will delve into 12 knee surgery types that are commonly performed, their purposes, and what patients can expect from each procedure.

Introduction to Knee Surgeries

Knee surgeries can range from minimally invasive procedures to more complex operations, depending on the condition being treated. The choice of surgery often depends on factors such as the severity of the condition, the patient’s overall health, and the surgeon’s professional judgment. Arthroscopic surgery, for instance, is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a small camera and instruments to diagnose and treat problems inside the knee joint. On the other hand, total knee replacement is a more invasive surgery where the damaged knee joint is replaced with artificial material.

Common Knee Surgery Types

There are several common knee surgery types, each designed to address specific knee conditions or injuries. These include:

• Meniscectomy: The surgical removal of all or part of a torn meniscus, a piece of cartilage in the knee that cushions and stabilizes the joint.
• Meniscal repair: A procedure to repair a torn meniscus, aiming to preserve as much of the meniscus as possible to maintain knee function.
• Ligament reconstruction: Surgery to repair or replace a torn ligament, which are tissues that connect bones to other bones and provide stability to the knee joint.
• Patellofemoral realignment: A surgical procedure to realign the patella (kneecap) and improve tracking, often performed to alleviate patellofemoral pain syndrome.

Detailed Overview of Knee Surgery Types

Let’s delve deeper into the specifics of each knee surgery type, including their indications, surgical techniques, and expected outcomes.

1. Total Knee Replacement (TKR)

Total Knee Replacement is a surgical procedure where the diseased knee joint is replaced with artificial material. It’s most commonly recommended for patients with severe osteoarthritis or other knee diseases that cause significant pain and disability. The surgery involves resurfacing the bones of the knee joint and replacing the bearing surfaces with a prosthetic component.

2. Partial Knee Replacement (PKR)

Partial Knee Replacement is a less invasive alternative to TKR, suitable for patients whose arthritis is limited to a single compartment of the knee. This procedure replaces only the damaged part of the knee, preserving more of the natural tissues and bones.

3. Arthroscopic Knee Surgery

Arthroscopic knee surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that allows the surgeon to look into the knee joint using a small camera. It can be used for diagnostic purposes or to perform minor surgical repairs, such as removing loose fragments of bone or cartilage.

4. Meniscectomy

A meniscectomy involves the surgical removal of a damaged or torn meniscus. The decision to remove the meniscus depends on the size and location of the tear, as well as the patient’s symptoms and activity level.

5. Meniscal Repair

Meniscal repair is preferred over meniscectomy when possible, as preserving the meniscus helps maintain knee function and reduces the risk of future problems like osteoarthritis. The success of meniscal repair depends on various factors, including the type of tear and the overall health of the knee joint.

6. Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Reconstruction

ACL reconstruction is a surgical procedure to repair a torn anterior cruciate ligament, one of the key ligaments that help stabilize the knee joint. The surgery typically involves replacing the damaged ligament with a graft, which can be taken from the patient or a donor.

7. Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Reconstruction

PCL reconstruction is similar to ACL reconstruction but focuses on repairing or replacing the posterior cruciate ligament. The PCL is another crucial ligament for knee stability, and its reconstruction is often more challenging than ACL reconstruction due to its location and function.

8. Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) Repair

The MCL is a ligament that provides stability to the inner aspect of the knee. MCL repair or reconstruction is necessary when this ligament is injured, often as a result of a direct blow to the outside of the knee.

9. Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL) Repair

The LCL is a ligament that provides stability to the outer aspect of the knee. LCL repair or reconstruction is less common than MCL injuries but may be necessary following a severe injury to the inner aspect of the knee.

10. Patellofemoral Realignment

Patellofemoral realignment surgeries are designed to improve the tracking and alignment of the patella. These procedures can help alleviate pain and improve function in patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome or recurrent patellar dislocations.

11. Osteotomy

A knee osteotomy involves cutting and realigning a bone in the leg to transfer weight-bearing stress from a damaged portion of the knee to a healthier area. This procedure is often recommended for younger, active patients with arthritis that is limited to a single area of the knee.

12. Cartilage Repair and Transplantation

Cartilage repair and transplantation procedures aim to restore damaged or missing cartilage in the knee. Techniques include microfracture, autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI), and osteochondral allograft transplantation, each with its own indications and outcomes.

Future Implications and