Knee Replacement

Greater Washington Orthopaedic Group PA

Orthopaedics located in SILVER SPRING, MD, GERMANTOWN, MD, & Rockville, MD

When your knee pain doesn’t respond to nonsurgical options, or if arthritis degeneration has left you with nonfunctional knees, knee replacement surgery may be your best option. The experienced orthopaedic surgeons at Greater Washington Orthopaedic Group, PA, with offices in SILVER SPRING, Rockville, and GERMANTOWN, Maryland, specialize in knee replacement surgery that can help you recover full form and function. For more information, schedule a consultation online or by phone today.

Knee Replacement Q & A

What is a knee replacement?

There are two main types of knee replacement surgery, partial and total. In a total knee replacement, your orthopaedic surgeon replaces both sides of your knee joint with plastic and metal prosthetics. In a partial knee replacement, they replace only the weight-bearing components of your knee.

Why would I need a knee replacement?

If you’re dealing with knee pain and other related symptoms that don’t respond to nonsurgical treatments, your orthopaedic surgeon at Greater Washington Orthopaedic Group may recommend knee replacement.

The most common reason for knee pain and movement problems that require knee replacement is arthritis. The following types of arthritis are the most common cause of severe knee damage:

Osteoarthritis: age-related arthritis that causes cartilage degeneration
Rheumatoid arthritis: autoimmune arthritis in which the synovial membrane around your knee grows inflamed
Post-traumatic arthritis: usually follows major knee injury and is triggered by knee fractures or tears

Sometimes sports injuries or other sudden injuries can be severe enough to warrant knee replacement, but in most cases, a knee replacement is needed only when you’re dealing with a long-term condition that doesn’t respond to other treatments.

How do I prepare for surgery?

The doctors at Greater Washington Orthopaedic Group perform knee replacement surgeries at Piccard Surgery Center in Rockville, which has an operating room with all the most advanced equipment.

A Piccard Surgery Center nurse will get in touch with you a minimum of 24 hours before your knee replacement surgery to discuss preparation instructions like eating, drinking, and medication use. Your doctor may give you additional preparation guidelines to follow as well.

On the day of your surgery, wear comfortable clothing and shoes that are easy to remove and put on. Leave all jewelry at home, and don’t wear makeup or perfume. Be sure to have your driver’s license and insurance information with you when you check in at Piccard Surgery Center. If you have a copay, you’ll pay it at Piccard Surgery Center.

What happens after my knee replacement surgery?

You'll be discharged the same day of the surgery. It's best to have another adult stay with you for at least the first day of your recovery. Your doctor gives you instructions regarding postoperative knee care, medication, physical therapy, and other specifics. The more closely you adhere to the instructions, the smoother your recovery will be.

A knee replacement can feel like a new lease on your whole body as it improves your mobility and relieves pain. To learn more, call Greater Washington Orthopaedic Group or schedule a consultation online today.

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