Stem Cell Treatments Can Help Avoid Knee Surgery

Did you know that knee replacement is one of the most commonly performed inpatient surgical procedures?

This may not seem surprising, considering that the knee, as a weight-bearing joint, is one of the most commonly injured parts of the body. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 700,000 knee replacement surgeries have been performed in 2010 alone.

What is a total knee replacement surgery?

Total knee replacement surgery has been performed since the 1970s. It is an invasive procedure usually recommended for patients with severely damaged knees.

During a total knee replacement surgery, the surgeon removes the damaged cartilage and bone from the knees and replaces them with a prosthesis. After the patient has recovered, they are expected to enjoy pain relief and better mobility.

However, the surgery does not come without risks.

Risks and complications associated with total knee replacement surgery

Like all surgeries, knee replacement has its risks. The risks are even higher in older adults or those who are older than 65 years old.

The risks and complications can include:

• Blood clots

Blood clots may form in any surgery, but they are more common after orthopedic surgeries. Blood clots pose a minor risk if they remain on the extremities. However, if the clot travels to vital parts of the body such as the heart and lungs, it can block the flow of blood and lead to complications.

• Pain 

Pain is expected before and after the surgery, but it should improve over time. Persistent or worsening pain is a complication that needs medical attention.

• Infection

Infection is rare, but if present, it requires immediate medical treatment. It happens when bacteria has entered the affected joint during the surgery. Patients with a poor immune system and those who are taking medications that suppress their immune response are more prone to infections.

• Allergic reaction 

There are many types of material used as a prosthesis to choose from. Patients with an allergy to metal best opt for other types of prosthesis, otherwise, they might suffer an allergic reaction.

• Bleeding problems 

Normally, sutures and staples are removed two weeks after the surgery. If the wound is still bleeding after two weeks, the doctor may need to reopen the wound and drain the blood. On the other hand, if the wound is slow to heal or not healing, the patient might need a skin graft.

• Nerve damage

Patients who experience nerve damage may feel numbness, weakness, tingling, and burning sensation. Nerve damage during surgery occurs in 10% of cases.

• Knee stiffness 

The scar tissue may affect knee movement, but it can be resolved with physical therapy. If the stiffness persists, the doctor might need to adjust the prosthesis.

• Implant complications

Sometimes, the implant may become unstable, wear out, or interfere with knee movement. In such cases, the patient may need to undergo revision to fix the problem.

How stem cell therapy can help avoid knee surgery?

Our regenerative medicine clinic in Tampa offers regenerative therapies for patients with damaged cartilage. Stem cell therapy uses the body’s natural healing mechanisms to repair the damage and delay the deterioration of the knee cartilage. It can also help decrease inflammation and relieve pain, letting the patient enjoy better knee joint mobility.

Our doctor will draw a small amount of blood from the patient, concentrate the stem cells, and inject the substance back into the damaged part of the knee.

Since the therapy is non-invasive and uses the body’s own healing cells, it poses little to no risk and side effects. If the body responds well to treatment, it can help you avoid going under the knife.

More about regenerative medicine in Tampa and Dr. Susanti Chowdhury

Dr. Susanti Chowdhury is experienced at providing various regenerative medicine treatments for patients looking for pain management in Largo, Fl. His treatment options are particularly effective when used to replace, or repair tissue damaged by disease, or injury.

If you would like more information about treatment options in Tampa or Dr. Chowdhury, please Contact Us.

The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.