Lateral Approach Total Knee Replacement
At Orlando Orthopaedic Center, we offer a range of advanced treatment options for knee pain, including lateral approach total knee replacement surgery. This minimally invasive procedure can provide significant relief for individuals with knee pain and limited mobility, secondary to severe or moderate to severe osteoarthritis.
Lateral approach total knee replacement offers several potential advantages over traditional knee replacement surgery, including:
- Faster recovery: Many patients experience a faster return to normal activities compared to traditional surgery.
- Smaller incisions: The smaller incision can result in less pain, less blood loss, and smaller scars.
- Less pain: The minimally invasive approach can lead to less post-operative pain.
- Preservation of the quadriceps tendon: This approach avoids incising & repairing the quadriceps tendon or muscle. This is often referred to as “quadriceps sparing”. This contribute to faster recovery & less pain.
What is the Lateral Approach to Total Knee Replacement?
Lateral approach total knee replacement is a surgical procedure that replaces a damaged knee joint with an artificial joint. The procedure is performed through a smaller incision on the side of the knee, rather than the front. This approach allows the surgeon to access the joint without cutting the quadriceps tendon, which is a major muscle in the thigh.
This procedure is frequently combined with pre-op Iovera nerve cryoablation. This temporary nerve ablation helps tremendously with rehab & post op pain control.
Who is a Candidate for Lateral Approach Total Knee Replacement?
Lateral approach total knee replacement may be a good option for individuals who:
- Have severe knee pain and stiffness that limits their daily activities
- Have not had success with other treatments, such as medication or physical therapy
- Are in good overall health
- Have a body mass index (BMI) under 40
- Are non-smokers
- If diabetes is present, HGB A1C should be 7 or less
Medical clearance is required.
What to Expect During Recovery
About 95% of lateral approach total knee replacements are preformed in outpatient ambulatory surgical centers.
After surgery, you will need to participate in a rehabilitation program to help you regain strength and mobility in your knee. Most patients are able to walk with crutches or a walker soon after surgery, and can return to most activities within a few weeks.
Potential Risks and Complications
As with any surgery, lateral approach total knee replacement carries some risks, including:
- Infection
- Blood clots
- Nerve damage
- Stiffness
- Implant loosening
