Arthroscopy

Arthroscopy is an advanced, minimally invasive technique used to perform surgery of the joints such as the hip, knee, and shoulder. The orthopedic surgeon examines and treats the damage in such areas using an instrument called an arthroscope.

Thomas & Bigler Knee and Shoulder Institute, led by board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler, provides orthopedic surgery to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada, while also serving areas such as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.

Shoulder Arthroscopy

The shoulder is an area that may undergo significant damage as a result of wear and tear due to age, injury or overuse. Shoulder arthroscopy is used to treatment different conditions that cause pain and damage of the articular cartilage, the labrum and rotator cuff tendons. This technique is also used to treat conditions affecting the soft tissues around the shoulder joint.

Some of the usual shoulder arthroscopic procedures are:

• Removal of bone spurs, loose cartilage, or inflamed tissue
• Repair or removal of the labrum
• Repair of ligaments, rotator cuff, and recurring shoulder dislocation

Other, less common uses of arthroscopy are:

• Nerve release
• Excision of cysts
• Fracture repair

Shoulder replacement, however, cannot be performed using arthroscopy.

Shoulder Arthroscopy Procedure

The first step is injection of a fluid into the shoulder in order to inflate the joint. Next, the surgeon makes a tiny, buttonhole-sized incision in the shoulder through which they insert the arthroscope. The inflation caused by the injection makes it easier for the surgeon to view the structures in the area with greater clarity through the arthroscope.

A continuous flow of fluid through the arthroscope ensures a clear view and also helps in control of any bleeding that may occur. The arthroscope images get projected on a video screen and the surgeon is able to view the actual condition of the patient’s shoulder.

Knee Arthroscopy

Knee arthroscopy is used to deal with conditions that cause damage of the cartilage and other soft tissues around the knee joint. These include:

• Removal of loose cartilage or bone fragments or inflamed synovial tissue
• Repair or removal of a torn meniscus
• Reconstruction of damaged anterior cruciate ligament
• Treatment of patella (kneecap) problem and knee sepsis (infection)
• Articular cartilage trimming

Knee Arthroscopy Procedure

The surgeon inserts the arthroscope into the knee joint and it begins to relay the images from there through a video monitor. Using this view, the surgeon guides miniature surgical instruments to the area to carry out the necessary treatment. As the tools and arthrosocope too are very thin, only a tiny incision has to be made. This is beneficial because patients experience less pain and joint stiffness and recover faster from the procedure.

Hip Arthroscopy

Hip arthroscopy uses the arthroscope to view and perform surgery for damage of the hip joint. It precludes the need for major incisions as in conventional hip surgery. Using the view projected by the arthroscope on a video monitor, the surgeon uses tiny surgical tools to perform the surgery in a minimally invasive manner.

Orthopedic surgeons Dr. Thomas and Dr. Bigler receive patients from Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV for orthopedic surgery.

Contact Board Certified Surgeons Dr. Bigler or Dr. Thomas at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada.

Knee Replacement

A knee replacement is a surgical technique used to remove the part of the knee affected by arthritis. A new knee is then fashioned out of metal and plastic parts that work in combination to mimic the natural action of the knee joint.

Using computed tomography (CT) scans, the surgeon creates a virtual picture of the affected knee. They then use a robotic arm to accurately position the different parts of the new knee in place.

Thomas & Bigler Knee and Shoulder Institute, led by board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler, provides orthopedic surgery to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada, while also serving areas such as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.

Who is a Candidate for Total Knee Replacement?

A total knee replacement surgery involves a replacement of all the three compartments of the knee. This procedure is ideal for those with stiff or crooked knees that arise due to arthritis or a deformity. An orthopedic surgeon will generally recommend a total knee replacement for patients with:

• Severe stiffness or debilitating pain in the knee that prevents them from routine actions such as walking, climbing stairs, sitting down, or rising from a chair.
• Moderate to severe pain in the knee even at rest conditions during the night or day.
• Deformity in which the knee bows in or out.
• Chronic inflammation of the knees that does not respond to rest or medication.
• Poor or no response to treatments such as anti-inflammatory drugs, cortisone or lubricating injections, physical therapy, and other forms of surgery.

What are the Benefits of Total Knee Replacement?

A total knee replacement surgery offers the following advantages:

• A knee that feels more natural following surgery because the implants have been positioned with precision.
• Lesser discomfort, a shorter hospital stay, and more rapid recovery because only tiny incisions are made for the surgery.
• Better safety and lesser risk of injuring other tissues in the surrounding area.
• Better long-term function of the knee.

How Does Robotic Technology Work?

The surgeon first creates a digital CT scan to study the condition of the patient’s knee. Using this data, they decide the precise area in which to place the knee implant.

During the actual surgical procedure, the surgeon uses a robotic arm and shapes the adjoining bone and then accurately positions the implant in place. Real-time video streaming allows the surgeon to view and navigate areas with greater clarity.

Using data from the CT images, the system creates a 3D space that limits the area within which actions are to be performed. The robotic arm moves only in this area and this eliminates the risk of the instrument causing any harm to the surrounding tissues.

Post-Operative Recovery

A little discomfort or pain is to be expected post-surgery as part of the normal recovery process. Physical therapy is a very important part of the rehabilitative process and you may be advised to begin this about 48 hours after completion of surgery.

Orthopedic surgeons Dr. Thomas and Dr. Bigler receive patients from Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV for orthopedic surgery.

Contact Board Certified Surgeons Dr. Bigler or Dr. Thomas at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada

Bursitis 

Diagnosis of Bursitis is typically based on your medical history and physical examination. Your orthopedic surgeon may also ask you to get some tests done. These tests include: 

• MRI or x-ray imaging: imaging tests are vital to diagnosing bursitis. Since x-ray images are not intuitive, they are less preferred. Typically, MRI or Ultrasonic tests will be prescribed by your doctor.  

• Laboratory tests: blood tests will help the surgeon assess your disorder better. In addition to blood tests, fluid from the inflamed bursa is sent for lab analysis to understand the cause better. 

Board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler provide orthopedic treatments to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada and greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.    

Treatments  

Bursitis can be treated either through a non-surgical medical procedure or by means of orthopedic surgery. Non-surgical methods include steroid injections and antibiotics.   

Steroids 

To stop the inflammation, the surgeon may inject steroids into the affected area. Steroids effectively block prostaglandin (this causes inflammation). The dosage is monitored carefully as excess steroid injection will shoot a patient’s blood pressure.  

Antibiotics  

If the fluid analysis tests positive for bacterial infection, antibiotics will be prescribed. These can be either administered orally or intravenously, depending on the severity of the condition.  

Surgical procedure  

Surgical procedures for treating bursitis are relatively rare. If shoulder bursitis becomes chronic, it is better to have surgically treated. The kind of surgery will depend on the severity of the issue and the underlying cause of bursitis. There are 3 recommended surgical procedures:  

Bursectomy 

Bursectomy is a procedure that surgically removes the inflamed bursa. This is usually done with a single incision, or arthroscopic, which requires 2 or 3 incisions.  

Once the inflamed bursa is removed, a new one is replaced. This new bursa will be less prone to develop into bursitis.  

Acromioplasty 

Acromioplasty, also known as, subacromial decompression is performed by removing the acromion on a patient’s shoulder blade. By removing this bone tissue, more space is available for the shoulder’s soft tissues which include rotator cuff, tendons, or subacromial bursa. More space for these soft tissues will make your joints less prone to inflammation or irritation. 

Acromioplasty is recommended if the acromion is hook-shaped instead of being flat. A curved acromion is more prone to impingement, thus bursitis.  

Surgical repairing and reattachment of the tendon 

If shoulder bursitis is caused by a damaged rotator cuff muscle or tendon, your surgeon will most likely recommend a reattachment. The damaged tendon is often reattached to the humeral head after repairing. Experts believe that the majority of cases for shoulder bursitis is because of a tear in the rotator cuff muscle.  

Bursectomy may be performed in conjunction with subacromial decompression. But in many cases, bursectomy alone is sufficient and may prove to be as effective as both bursectomy and subacromial compression combined. 

Board certified orthopedic surgeons at Thomas & Bigler Knee & Shoulder Institute provide orthopedic treatments to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada and greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.  

Contact Board Certified Surgeons Dr. Bigler or Dr. Thomas at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada.

Bursitis

Bursitis is a joint disorder that occurs when a fluid-filled sac called bursa becomes swollen. Bursa is a pivotal part that acts as a cushion between a bone and a muscle. Generally, bursitis occurs when a particular joint is overused. In addition to that, it may also occur following an injury.  

While it can occur in any joints, it is predominantly observed at the knee or elbow. If you tend to kneel down on hard surfaces for prolonged periods, you could be at risk of developing bursitis. The diagnosis of bursitis begins with a physical examination, followed by laboratory tests such as x-rays and MRIs. The doctor might also take a small portion of the fluid from the swollen area to ensure whether the area is infected.  

Bursitis can sometimes be treated by taking rest and refraining from repetitive physical activities. If it still persists, then your orthopedic surgeon will inject medication through the swollen bursa. If you observe bursitis even after 6 to 12 months, your doctor will recommend you to have surgery. 

Board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler provide orthopedic treatments to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada and greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.   

Causes of bursitis  

Bursitis can occur when you perform repetitive, physical activities that induce immense pressure on the bursa around a joint. Such activities include lifting something over your head repeatedly or leaning on your elbows for a prolonged period. In addition to that, injury or trauma, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or infection may also cause this condition.  

Factors that increase the risk of bursitis  

Bursitis is a common joint disorder that occurs due to specific reasons. However, there are certain factors that increase your risk of getting bursitis: 

• Age: Bursitis becomes severe as you age.  

• Occupation: if you perform repetitive physical activities on a particular bursa, during your work or hobby, then the chances for you to develop bursitis are higher. Playing a musical instrument, painting, gardening, tile setting, or carpet setting are a few activities that could induce the inflammation of bursae.  

• Medical conditions: autoimmune diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, and other joint disorders like gout will worsen bursitis. If you have diabetes or any of the aforementioned joint disorders then you are at higher risk of developing bursitis. Being obese or overweight will also increase the chances of developing hip or knee bursitis.  

How to prevent bursitis? 

• Using kneeling pads: when you need to put pressure on your knees (or any joint), it is recommended to use a cushion or padding.  

• Proper posture while lifting: a proper posture will ensure that the pressure is equally distributed instead of a particular bursa. Always bend your knees when you lift.  

• Avoid carrying heavy loads: it is best to wheel heavy loads instead of carrying it on your shoulders.  

• Taking a break when needed: take rest periodically if you perform repetitive tasks.  

• Keep a healthy body: obesity or overweight will induce more stress on your joints. Hence maintain a proper weight.  

Board certified orthopedic surgeons at Thomas & Bigler Knee & Shoulder Institute provide orthopedic treatments to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada and greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.   

Contact Board Certified Surgeons Dr. Bigler or Dr. Thomas at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada.

Joint Disorder Treatment in Las Vegas

A joint is an intersection where two or more bones meet. Like bones, joints can also get damaged as a result of diseases, infections, or injuries. Some of these conditions include: 

• Arthritis: This can occur following chronic inflammation of a joint. This causes severe damage to the joints, pain, stiffness, and swelling.  

• Bursitis: It is the inflammation of a fluid-filled sac called a bursa.  

• Dislocation: This is a physical injury that forces the bones to slip out of its position. 

Treatment of joint problems varies in accordance with the cause. If you have a sports injury, you would need to follow RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) to relieve the pain for a speedy recovery. In addition to that, depending on the patient’s condition, pain relievers and rehabilitation may be necessary. For severe damage to the joint, you may need joint replacement surgery. 

Board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler provide orthopedic treatments to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada and greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.   

Cortisone injections  

Cortisone injections help relieve pain and inflammation in specific parts of your body. Generally, they are administered into joints like an ankle, elbow, knee, hip, spine, or wrist. Cortisone shots are local, hence even the smallest joints in your body can benefit from it.   

The injection is composed of a corticosteroid and an anesthetic (local). This is an in-office procedure administered by your orthopedic surgeon. Since excess cortisone shots may cause side effects, there is a yearly limit for the number of shots you can take.  

When is it used?  

Cortisone shots are effective in treating rheumatoid arthritis. Some of its other benefits include the treatment of: 

• Bursitis 

• Back Pain 

• Gout  

• Reactive arthritis 

• Osteoarthritis 

• Tendinitis 

• Psoriatic arthritis 

• Rheumatoid arthritis 

Joint and soft tissue injections 

Joint and soft tissue injections are often used to diagnose severe joint conditions. They are injected in a joint or a soft tissue site like the space between your muscle and bone. Some of its benefits include the effective treatment of: 

• Arthritis  

• Bursitis  

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome  

• Tendonitis  

• Osteoarthritis  

• Rheumatism  

The needle used in this injection can aid in either taking out the fluid or injecting an anti-inflammatory medicine. These anti-inflammatory medications include corticosteroids or lidocaine, with the latter used as an effective pain reliever. Before getting an injection, it is vital for you to make sure that you are not allergic to certain steroids, and you must consult with your doctor for it.  

Joint replacement surgery 

If the non-surgical methods don’t work, your doctor might suggest a joint replacement. This is an advanced surgical procedure that removes the damaged joint to replace it with an artificial joint.  

This artificial joint will make you feel better by substantially reducing your discomfort. Hips and knee joints are replaced more often. There are proven records for successful shoulder, finger, ankle, and elbow joint replacement. The end objective of joint replacement surgery is to relieve the pain and make the joint functional. 

Board certified orthopedic surgeons at Thomas & Bigler Knee & Shoulder Institute provide orthopedic treatments to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada and greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.    

Contact Board Certified Surgeons Dr. Bigler or Dr. Thomas at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada.

Common Bone And Joint Conditions

Our body has more than 200 joints to connect as many as 200 bones that we have. However, we rarely contemplate as to how this mechanism works. There are some conditions that risk the proper working of this natural network of bones and joints. 

Board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler provide orthopedic treatments to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada and greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.   

Osteoarthritis 

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common joint disorders that occurs when your cartilage between two joints begins to wear down. As a result of this, your bones will come in contact thereby rubbing each other. This results in swelling and stiffness. Generally, almost everyone shows some symptoms by the age of 70.  

Symptoms of osteoarthritis  

• Excessive swelling and joint pain 

• Stiff joints  

Causes of osteoarthritis  

• Osteoarthritis is hereditary. If anyone in your family has it, chances are that you might have it as well.  

• Obesity or overweight  

• Fractures and joint injuries  

• Physical activities that involve a direct impact on the joints  

Prevention of osteoarthritis  

• Refrain from using your painful joints frequently  

• Be healthy and keep your body fit  

• Enhance your muscles around weight-bearing joints  

Gout 

Gout typically affects your joint in the foot or ankle. This is a painful condition observed by men during their middle-age and women during their old age.  

Symptoms of gout 

• Severe swelling and painful joint 

• Typically observed during the night  

Causes of gout 

• Abnormal blood levels of uric acid 

• Alcohol, meat, or seafood can start an attack. In addition to that, organ meats such as liver are also found to cause gout.  

• Gout is also associated with the consumption of diuretics or “water pills”  

Prevention of gout  

• Monitoring your diet and avoiding foods that worsen gout 

• Seeking medical attention and taking prescribed medications  

Rheumatoid arthritis 

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation of the joints and the neighboring tissues. Most commonly observed during the middle age, there is not a specific age group that observes the disease the most.  

Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis  

• Morning stiffness lasts more than an hour  

• Pain and swelling of limb-joints  

Cause of rheumatoid arthritis  

Even though the exact cause of Rheumatoid Arthritis is unknown, the disease is associated with infection, genes, and hormone changes.  

Prevention of rheumatoid arthritis  

There’s no specific treatment for rheumatoid arthritis.  

• Refrain from tobacco products, as they are known to worsen the condition.  

• Seek medical attention as early treatment can prevent the joint from getting damaged.  

Bursitis  

Bursitis is a medical condition that is observed as a result of swelling or irritation of a fluid-filled sac called a bursa. Bursa acts as a cushion between tendons, joints, and muscles. 

Symptoms of bursitis  

• Pain and tenderness while pressing the joints  

• Stiffness while moving the affected joint  

• Redness, warmth, and swelling over the joint  

Cause of bursitis  

• A sudden change in activity level  

• Bursitis is also associated with trauma, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout  

• In some cases, the exact cause cannot be found  

Prevention of bursitis  

Avoid repetitive physical activities that cause discomfort in your joints. Board certified orthopedic surgeons at Thomas & Bigler Knee & Shoulder Institute provide orthopedic treatments to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada and greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.    

Contact Board Certified Surgeons Dr. Bigler or Dr. Thomas at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada.

Hip Replacement Surgery 

Hip replacement is a major orthopedic surgery procedure, which will involve a significant recovery process. Depending on your extent of surgery and your general health condition, you may be able to return home the same day after your surgery. Your surgeon will discuss the estimated recovery with you during your initial consultation.  

Thomas & Bigler Knee & Shoulder Institute, led by board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler provides hip replacement surgery to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV. 

Recovery Process 

Most patients may be ready to walk with the assistance of walker or another support device within 24 hours after their hip replacement procedure. You may require guidance from a physical therapist who will teach you how to move safely while taking care of your new hip as it heals. The precise recovery process and guidelines will vary from one patient to another, but in general you should follow these suggestions:  

• Seek approval from your surgeon before you return to work or resume your daily routine. 
• Activities such as driving should be resumed depending on your hip function and the type of pain medications you are taking.  

• If you have a sedentary job, you may be able to go back to work in about one month after your hip replacement.  
• If your nature of work involves standing for long hours, lifting heavy objects, or bending, you may have to wait for about two months before you resume work.  
• Heavy manual labor should anyway be avoided after hip replacement.  
• Your full recovery may take anywhere from three to 12 months.  

Resumption of physical activities such as yoga, golf, hiking, or other sports should be done only after consulting with your surgeon.  

Taking Care of Your New Hip 

Your new hip will last long or permanently, provided you take proper care. The care instructions may vary depending on your specific condition, but in general you should:  

• Avoid twisting your hip 
• Avoid bending your hip excessively during any activity  
• Do not swivel on the ball of your foot  
• Take small steps when you turn around  

• During the early healing stage, avoid lying on your side to minimize pressure on the hip  
• Avoid crossing your legs over each other  
• Avoid low toilet seats or low chairs  
• Do not forcibly perform any activity that makes your hip feel uncomfortable  

Steps to Improve Your Recovery  

Once your surgeon allows you to resume exercises, get into a regular, healthy exercise routine. Movement is a vital part of a healthy recovery after hip replacement. Pay attention to your body weight and follow a balanced diet along with an active lifestyle. If you are overweight, it can put strain on your new hip and increase its wear or risk of complications. 

Board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Thomas and Dr. Bigler receive patients from Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV for hip replacement surgery. 

Contact Board Certified Surgeons Dr. Bigler or Dr. Thomas at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada.

Orthopedic surgeon hip replacement questions

Your choice of an orthopedic surgeon for your hip replacement surgery is a decision that you will probably live with for the rest of your life. The single most important factor that will influence the final outcome of your hip replacement surgery is the skill and experience of the operating surgeon.  

A highly qualified and trained orthopedic surgeon with thorough knowledge of the hip procedures will be able to successfully eliminate your hip joint problems and pain, while restoring your function and personal confidence for years to come.  

On the other hand, if you work with a less trained or less experienced orthopedic surgeon for an advanced procedure such as hip replacement, your risk of not achieving the most satisfactory outcomes could increase. Board certified orthopedic surgeons at Thomas & Bigler Knee & Shoulder Institute provide reliable and proven orthopedic surgery to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV.  

Clarify Your Doubts during the Consultation 

The initial consultation with an orthopedic surgeon will give you an opportunity to clear all your doubts and concerns. A dedicated surgeon will encourage you to ask questions and provide you thorough and accurate answers. Once you have clarity about the surgeon’s skills and capabilities as well as about the hip replacement surgery, you can make a more confident and informed decision.  

Patients who understand exactly what the hip replacement surgery will entail, have trust in their surgeon’s abilities, and keep realistic expectations are likely to achieve most satisfying results from their procedure. Therefore, make the most of your pre-operative consultation with the surgeon.  

It is best to prepare a list of your questions in advance and carry the list with you to the surgeon’s office. This will ensure that none of your pertinent questions gets missed out.  

Questions to Ask 

• Are you board certified in orthopedic surgery? 
• How many years of training and experience do you have in orthopedic procedures? 
• Have you performed hip surgeries in the past, and what is your success rate in this procedure? 
• Will you recommend general anesthesia or IV sedation with local anesthesia for my surgery? 
• How long with the procedure take inside the operating room? 

• Will you perform the hip replacement surgery at a hospital or an accredited surgery center?  
• What type of surgical technique will be involved in my hip replacement, and is it possible to make the procedure less invasive? 
• How long will it take to recover completely after hip replacement? 
• Will I require rehab and physical therapy after the surgery? 
• Are there any potential risks involved in the procedure which I should know about?  

• How much will my hip replacement surgery cost, and will your office guide or support me with the insurance requirements?  
• Do you have a policy for revision surgeries if any problem occurs with my hip replacement surgery?

Board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler receive patients from Las Vegas, Nevada as well as greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, and Mesquite, NV for the latest procedures in orthopedic surgery. 

Contact Board Certified Surgeons Dr. Bigler or Dr. Thomas at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada.

MCL Injury

The medial collateral ligament (MCL) is situated on the inner aspect, or part, of the knee, but outside the joint itself. Ligaments connect bones as well as offer stability and strength to a joint.

The MCL attaches the top of the tibia (shinbone) to the bottom of the femur (thighbone). An injury to the MCL is commonly referred to as an MCL sprain. Ligament injuries may either stretch the ligament or tear it. 

MCL injury of the knee typically occurs due to a direct blow to the knee. This type of injury occurs commonly in contact sports. It is typically the result of a blow or hit to the outer aspect of the knee, which causes the MCL to stretch or tear.

Board certified orthopedic surgeons Dr. Steven C. Thomas and Dr. Gregory T. Bigler provide procedures for the knee and shoulder to patients in Las Vegas, Nevada as well as Greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, Mesquite, NV, and surrounding communities. 

Types of MCL Injuries

MCL injuries can be categorized as grades 1, 2, or 3:

• Grade 1: A grade 1 MCL injury is the least severe, and it signifies that the ligament has been stretched but not torn.
• Grade 2: A grade 2 MCL injury implies that the ligament has been partially torn, which typically leads to some instability in the knee joint.
• Grade 3: A grade 3 MCL injury refers to the severe type of ligament injury, and it means that the ligament is completely torn. A grade 3 MCL sprain commonly causes joint instability.

How’s an MCL Injury Treated?

Treatment options differ depending on the severity of the MCL injury. A majority of MCL injuries will heal by themselves following a few weeks of rest. 

Immediate Treatment

Immediate treatment is required to ease pain and help stabilize the knee. The treatment options include the following:

• Applying ice to reduce inflammation
• Raising the knee above the heart to help with inflammation
• Taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to ease pain and inflammation
• Compressing the knee using a brace or an elastic bandage
• Resting
• Using crutches to keep weight off the injured knee

Rehab

When recovering from the injury, the goal is to regain strength in the knee and prevent further injury. The treatment options may include:

• Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and enhance the range of motion of the knee
• Wearing a protective knee brace during physical activity
• Restricting activities that can lead to further injury, such as contact sports

Surgery

In rare circumstances, an MCL injury will necessitate surgery. A patient will need surgery when the ligament is damaged in such a manner that it cannot repair itself. It is also undertaken when the MCL injury occurs along with other ligament injuries.

Prior to the surgery, the surgeon may use arthroscopy to properly examine the extent of the injury and to look for associated injuries inside the knee. In arthroscopy, a small and narrow camera is inserted through a small incision, or cut.

Following the arthroscopic exam, the surgeon will make a tiny incision along the inner aspect of the knee. In case the ligament is torn where it connects either to the shinbone or the thighbone, the surgeon can use one of the following to reattach it:

• Large stitches
• Bone staples
• A metal screw
• A device known as a suture anchor

The surgeon will stitch the ligament together if the tear is in the middle of the ligament. Board certified orthopedic surgeons at the Thomas and Bigler Knee & Shoulder Institute receive patients from Las Vegas, Nevada as well as Greater Pahrump, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu, Mesquite, NV, and nearby areas for knee and shoulder procedures.

If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments performed by Las Vegas, Nevada board-certified surgeons Steven C. Thomas, MD and Gregory T. Bigler, MD. Contact the office today click here.

Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada.