Knee replacement surgery in Griffith
Since opening in 2016, St Vincent’s Private Community Hospital Griffith has been welcoming thousands of patients from the Riverina region, providing the same high-quality knee replacement surgery as at all St Vincent’s Private Hospitals. Local patients suffering from recurrent knee pain are now able to access the very best in orthopaedic care much closer to home, including knee replacement surgery, arthroscopies and reconstruction. Combining the latest technology with state-of-the-art facilities, knee replacement surgery at St Vincent’s Private Community Hospital Griffith is available for all patients that are considered reasonably fit and healthy, and meet the standard clinical criteria.
Benefits of knee replacement surgery in Griffith
With many rural patients living far from Sydney’s centre, accessing quality healthcare in times of need can be a challenge. The development of the new St Vincent’s joint replacement service, was important recognition of the huge impact that accessible local treatment can make on the community. We understand the benefits of convenience and accessibility – particularly when considering knee replacement surgery, and at St Vincent’s Griffith, we have a dedicated team of medical specialists, on-site including some of Australia’s leading health professionals. Not only does this minimise unnecessary upheaval, cost and inconvenience for patients, it means they can also benefit from proximity to family and friends while recovering at home. Removing the need to travel can make a world of difference to busy families – as well as helping patients achieve their best results. We pride ourselves on continually providing exceptional patient-centred care to the local community and beyond.
Total knee replacement surgery
The knee joint is one of the largest and most complex in the human body. It helps us perform easy, everyday activities such as walking, kneeling down, or climbing stairs. When that function is disrupted by injury or disease, it can cause severe and recurrent pain, as well as impact your quality of life. Total knee replacement surgery, sometimes referred to as knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure whereby the damaged knee joint is replaced with artificial parts. The most common reason for knee surgery is arthritis, a degenerative condition which causes the protective cartilage to wear away. When the bones of the knee joint are exposed, they rub against each other causing intense pain and inflammation.
Knee replacement surgery is now a commonplace procedure, and a highly effective way to significantly reduce recurrent knee pain, as well as restore mobility and function. During surgery, the damaged end of the thighbone (femur) and shinbone (tibia) are replaced with specialised implants that mimic the natural activity of the knee joint. If necessary, the kneecap (patella) is also replaced. The operation itself can take up to 3 hours with a further few days spent recovering in hospital before returning home under the care of our rehabilitation team. Total knee replacement surgery is so successful, it is now considered a routine operation for all ages where appropriate.
Other types of knee replacement surgery
As well as total knee replacement surgery, St Vincent’s Private Community Hospital Griffith offers a range of procedures that can effectively treat recurring knee pain and ongoing discomfort.
Partial knee replacementThe knee has three main compartments: the inside (medial), the outside (lateral) and the compartment behind the kneecap (compartmental). If only one part of the knee joint is impacted, a partial knee replacement may be recommended. Often referred to as a uni-compartmental knee replacement, this procedure can be performed as a minimally invasive procedure, leaving the supportive ligaments and cartilage intact. The benefit of this smaller operation is that the knee is thought to retain a more natural function with a better range of motion, there is less pain, and the recovery period is significantly shorter.
If you are experiencing the recurrence of some familiar knee symptoms such as swelling, aching or stiffness, it could mean that your knee implants are in need of replacement. All knee replacement implants have a finite lifespan and can begin to fail for many reasons. Revision knee surgery is a lengthier procedure to replace the artificial parts that are no longer working, either through natural wear and tear, loosening or infection. It can be a complex procedure and will take extensive planning and preparation. In some cases, only one part of the knee implant may need replacing, but in more serious cases, all three components may need attention.
Patients requiring knee replacement surgery on both sides may be recommended for bilateral surgery. This is usually the result of degenerative arthritis affecting both knees, and the operation can be performed simultaneously or staged across two separate procedures. The decision for simultaneous surgery is personal to the suitability of the patient, and your doctor will assess your age, weight and general health as well as your tolerance for undergoing major surgery. Whilst there is convenience to having a single operation with just one anaesthetic and one recovery period, it is considered a major procedure, so it is not always clinically appropriate for all patients.
Can Medicare help with my knee surgery in Griffith?
The cost of your surgery at St Vincent’s Private Community Hospital Griffith is dependent on a number of factors that will vary by patient, including your level of private health insurance and the cost of your surgical team. Find out more about your Medicare rebate here.
What else should I consider?
Going into hospital can be a stressful experience, but we understand the benefits of staying close to home and in the comfort of your community. Here at St Vincent’s Private Community Hospital Griffith, our service is underpinned by our core values of compassion, justice, integrity and excellence. We are proud to offer up a tradition of progressive and excellent health care, with patient wellbeing at the heart of everything we do.
Find out if you are a suitable candidate for local surgery in Griffith: Find a Specialist.
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