Chronic knee pain can significantly impact your quality of life, making it difficult to perform everyday activities or enjoy your favorite sports. When conservative treatments such as physical therapy and medication fail to provide relief, surgical options may be the best solution. At the practice of Steven C. Thomas, MD and Donald W Pennington, DO, our board-certified surgeons specialize in orthopedic procedures in the Las Vegas area. Here, we explore common surgical treatments for chronic knee pain and what you can expect from these procedures.
1. Arthroscopic Surgery
Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat knee problems. Using a small camera and specialized instruments, your surgeon can remove damaged cartilage, repair ligaments, or clean out debris causing pain. This procedure typically involves minimal downtime and a faster recovery compared to open surgery.
2. Partial Knee Replacement
When knee damage is localized to a specific area, a partial knee replacement may be an effective option. This procedure replaces only the damaged portion of the knee joint while preserving healthy tissue and bone. Patients often experience reduced pain and improved mobility following this surgery.
3. Total Knee Replacement
For patients with severe knee arthritis or extensive joint damage, a total knee replacement may be necessary. During this procedure, the entire knee joint is replaced with prosthetic components designed to mimic the natural movement of your knee. While recovery may take several months, many patients report significant pain relief and improved quality of life.
4. Ligament Reconstruction
Injuries to the knee ligaments, such as the ACL or MCL, can lead to chronic instability and pain. Ligament reconstruction involves replacing the damaged ligament with a graft, often using tissue from your own body or a donor. This surgery is particularly beneficial for active individuals looking to return to sports or high-impact activities.
5. Cartilage Restoration Procedures
Cartilage damage in the knee can cause pain and limit mobility. Cartilage restoration techniques, such as microfracture, osteochondral grafting, or autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI), aim to repair or regenerate damaged cartilage. These procedures are especially helpful for younger patients with localized cartilage defects.
Choosing the Right Treatment
Every patient’s knee pain is unique, and the best treatment option depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. During your consultation at the practice of Steven C. Thomas, MD and Donald W. Pennington, DO, we will perform a thorough evaluation and recommend a surgical plan tailored to your needs.
Take the First Step Toward Relief
Living with chronic knee pain doesn’t have to be your reality. With advanced surgical options and the expertise of our board-certified surgeons, you can regain mobility and enjoy life to the fullest.
Contact Surgeons Dr. Thomas and Dr. Pennington at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:
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Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada