Choose a Surgeon for Total Knee Replacement Total knee replacement surgery is performed by orthopedic surgeons. Even though boardcertified orthopedic surgeons have to go through years of special training, knee replacement surgery does not require a special license or certification. Total knee replacement surgery (total knee arthroplasty) is more likely to be successful and less likely to cause problems if the patient chooses a surgeon and hospital with the right resources and a high number of knee replacements done each year.
Keep the following factors in mind when choosing the best orthopedic surgeon for knee replacement surgery: Work Experience: How long has the surgeon been working? What are the disciplines? How many knee replacement surgeries have they performed? How many concerts does he give each year? • Talk to your primary care doctor: Ask your primary care doctor or general practitioner for a referral to a reputable local surgeon based on his or her past experience referring patients. • Communicate with your co-workers: Inquire with people you know who have seen orthopedic surgeons. Arthritis and joint replacement surgeries are very common nowadays; you almost certainly know someone who has had them. (However, don’t rely solely on this information. Even inexperienced surgeons will have satisfied patients!) • Education: Examine the surgeon’s credentials, which should include degrees, training, and fellowships. Consider his or her areas of study and the board certifications he or she has or is eligible for. • Make a list of your questions and make sure to ask them: Do not be afraid to inquire about your doctor’s experience and credentials. Make sure to ask your doctor any questions you have about your condition and surgical options. Any good surgeon will listen to your concerns and answer your questions so that you fully understand the procedures and risks. • Consider getting a second opinion: Getting a second opinion may put your mind at ease. Most good surgeons will be glad to give you a second opinion, and if you need it, they will look at it and talk with you about it. This should ideally come from a doctor in a different practice or hospital than the first surgeon. • Trust your instincts: If you leave the initial consultation/meeting with a surgeon and do not feel confident in that surgeon, trust yourself and continue your search.
What to Expect After Knee Replacement Surgery Ninety percent of knee replacement surgeries done each year are considered successful, which means that the patient feels less pain and can move better. According to studies, overall patient satisfaction with the surgery is around 85%.