Tech for Your Health
Patients needing a knee replacement can benefit from this muscle-sparing technique.
Total knee replacement is one of the most common surgeries in the U.S., performed nearly 800,000 times each year. The procedure is used to treat severe knee pain that interferes with daily activities, often caused by arthritis.
Traditional total knee replacement involves making a large incision down the center of the knee and cutting through the quadriceps, or quads – the muscle group responsible for extending the knee – to access the joint. However, thanks to surgical advancements, it is now possible to preserve the quads during knee replacement.
Known as quad-sparing total knee replacement, this minimally invasive surgical approach uses a smaller incision and avoids damaging the quads. Instead, the surgeon works around or under the muscles.
How Does It Work?
During quad-sparing total knee replacement, patients will first receive general anesthesia. The surgeon will then make a small incision over the affected knee and carefully work around the quads to access the knee joint and remove the damaged bone. Artificial parts are then inserted to restore smooth movement and provide support to the joint. The surgeon will then close the incision, concluding surgery. Physical therapy is often recommended during the recovery period to help strengthen the knee and restore movement.
The Benefits of Quad-Sparing Total Knee Replacement
In addition to relieving pain and restoring function to the knee, the quad-sparing technique lets patients enjoy:
- Preserved muscle function
- Reduced post-operative pain
- A faster restoration of strength and mobility
- A quicker return to normal activities
An Expert Weighs In
Meet the Author
Rachel Studebaker, BA, English, Summa Cum Laude
Rachel Studebaker is a graduate of Lee University where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English with a minor in advertising. While attending Lee, Rachel served as editor-in-chief and creative director for the school’s biannual publication Vindagua and was a member of Sigma Tau Delta English Honors Society. As managing editor for CMC Media & Marketing Group, she is responsible for the development and completion of 16 publications involving health, wellness, business, sports, and lifestyle articles published in print and online for HealthScope®, CityScope®, and Choose Chattanooga® magazines – premier publications serving S.E. Tennessee and North Georgia. Additionally, Rachel has led digital marketing initiatives for CMC Media & Marketing Group as well as the development of content for the introduction of Choose Huntsville™, Huntsville Resource & Relocation Guide™ for Huntsville, Alabama.
