Educational overview. Not medical advice.
Total knee replacement (TKR) is a common orthopedic procedure that helps alleviate pain and restore function in patients with severe knee damage. In Charleston, SC, a stable population of approximately 127,999, with a median age slightly higher than the national average, drives demand for this surgery due to factors such as an active lifestyle and an aging demographic.
Charleston Overview
Charleston boasts several main hospitals and health systems, including MUSC Health and Roper St. Francis. While there are no dedicated academic centers, the community often relies on nearby tertiary centers for specialized orthopedic care.
Charleston's dominant commercial insurers include BlueCross BlueShield and Aetna, with Medicare penetration aligning closely with national averages. This is significant for joint replacement as it impacts patient access and out-of-pocket costs for essential procedures.
Active Lifestyle Demand: Many residents engage in outdoor activities, increasing wear on joints.
Aging Population: A significant portion of the community is over 65, leading to higher incidences of osteoarthritis.
Climate Considerations: Mild winters encourage year-round physical activity, influencing joint health.
Access to Rehabilitation: High availability of rehab facilities supports post-operative recovery.
Total knee replacement is designed to relieve pain and improve function for individuals with severe knee damage. Common variations include partial knee replacement and total knee arthroplasty, each tailored to the patient's specific needs and condition.
Patients often consider total knee replacement after exhausting non-surgical options, such as physical therapy and injections like Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) or stem cells. These alternatives aim to alleviate pain but may not provide the same level of relief as surgical intervention.
The procedure typically begins with an incision to access the knee joint, followed by preparation of the joint surfaces. The orthopedic surgeon then places the implant, balances the soft tissues, and closes the incision to promote healing.
Recovery generally spans several weeks, beginning with pain management and immobilization, followed by gradual motion and strengthening exercises. Patients can expect to return to normal activities within a few months, guided by their rehabilitation program.
Patients typically compare options based on experience with the procedure, logistical considerations, and rehabilitation coordination. TopOrthoDocs serves as an educational search platform, highlighting the importance of experience for safer surgeries and smoother recoveries.
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