Minimally Invasive Total Knee Replacement in Huntsville, AL

Total knee replacement is a surgical procedure to replace a damaged or worn-out knee joint with an artificial joint.
The decision to undergo total knee replacement is made after carefully evaluating your condition.

Typically, this procedure is recommended when conservative treatments, such as medication, physical therapy, injections, and lifestyle modifications, no longer provide sufficient relief from knee pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.

Here are the general steps of a minimally invasive total knee replacement:

Once you are under anesthesia, an incision is made over the front of the knee joint. Care is taken to minimize tissue damage and preserve muscles and ligaments surrounding the knee. Dr. Wills uses a minimally invasive approach resulting in less tissue damage and trauma to the surrounding muscles and tendons. This can lead to a faster recovery, less pain, and reduced scarring compared to traditional surgery.
Next, the damaged or diseased portions of the knee joint are carefully removed, including the ends of the thighbone (femur) and shinbone (tibia). Precision instruments, such as saws and specialized cutting guides, are used to shape the bones to accommodate the artificial joint components.
The artificial knee joint, composed of metal and plastic components, is then securely fixed to the prepared bone surfaces in either a press-fit manner or using bone cement, depending on the patient. A plastic spacer is inserted between the two components to allow smooth movement.
If the patella is damaged, the underside of the kneecap (patella) might also be resurfaced with a plastic button-like component to improve its function and reduce pain. If there is minimal damage to the kneecap, it is often left alone. The surgical incision is then closed, and a sterile dressing is applied to protect the wound.

Physical therapy and rehabilitation will begin shortly after the procedure to help you regain strength, flexibility, and mobility in your new knee joint.

It’s important to note that every patient’s experience and recovery may vary. Be sure to consult Dr. Brad Wills for your knee replacement.