The COVID-19 pandemic has triggered dramatic changes throughout everyday life — and in the medical community as well. Not only are providers across the country postponing elective procedures, but many are also encouraging people to avoid in-office appointments to reduce their risk of exposure to this highly contagious coronavirus.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American College of Surgeons recommend that doctors postpone elective surgeries due to COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) and we are following that guidance strictly. The concern is not that a knee replacement or hip replacement would be more likely to result in complications at this time, but rather that we need to keep hospital resources and medical equipment available for those with the greatest need.
Patients often ask themselves and their orthopedists, “Am I too old for a hip replacement?” Just as frequently they ask, “Am I too young?” The answers may surprise you and have you taking another look at the benefits of hip replacement.
Discovering that you need surgery to repair your knee can bring a range of emotions — from anxiety about the procedure to enthusiasm about more mobility and less pain. One of the first topics to discuss with your doctor is the difference between a total knee replacement and a partial knee replacement. Then you can work together to make the right choice for your individual circumstances.
Hip replacements are a technically challenging procedure, so you want to choose a surgeon who uses the best methods available, including inter-operative X-ray. While many doctors will wait until after surgery to take X-rays, Dr. Siram takes X-rays throughout the procedure to refine the positioning of the artificial joint and to reduce future complications.
If you are considering partial knee replacement, you are certainly wondering how long recovery will take. When can you start walking? Go back to work? Return to exercising? Let’s take a look at the answers to learn what you can expect.
In recent history, one piece of medical equipment stands out above all others for orthopedic surgeons who perform hip replacements. It’s the Hana table. Unlike a traditional, flat operating table, the Hana table allows the legs to be placed in separate stirrups so that the hips and legs can easily be repositioned during the course of a surgery.