A meniscal tear, also known as a cartilage tear, is a common knee injury caused by twisting or rotating the knee, especially with full weight on it. Symptoms include pain, clicking sensations, swelling, and difficulty extending the knee. Treatment options range from nonsurgical approaches like rest and therapy to potential surgery.
ACL reconstruction involves replacing a torn ACL with a patellar tendon graft, known as a bone-patellar-tendon-bone (BPTB) graft. This surgical procedure aims to restore knee strength and function, commonly following sports-related injuries. The BPTB graft, with low failure rates, is often preferred for active individuals, but the hamstring tendon graft is also an option.
UCL reconstruction, also known as Tommy John Surgery, repairs a torn ulnar collateral ligament in the elbow. The procedure aims to stabilize the elbow, reduce pain, and restore range of motion. Typically necessary for athletes in throwing sports, it involves replacing the torn ligament with a tendon from the patient’s body or a donor.
Shoulder joint replacement replaces damaged bone surfaces with artificial components to alleviate pain and enhance shoulder function. It can be done through traditional “open” surgery or minimally invasive techniques, which offer faster recovery, less pain, and fewer complications. The choice depends on the patient’s condition and the surgeon’s expertise. Pathologies favoring minimally invasive approach include specific shoulder arthritis and humerus fractures.
Total knee replacement surgery can provide relief for severe knee damage from arthritis or injury, allowing patients to resume normal activities. With advancements in materials and techniques, it has become a safe and effective procedure, with over 700,000 performed annually in the U.S. For more information, visit orthoinfo.aaos.org or briancolemd.com/knee.
A conventional shoulder replacement device mimics the normal anatomy of the shoulder: A plastic cup is fitted into the shoulder socket (glenoid), and a metal
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