Knee Surgery Services
Advanced Surgical Treatments for Knee Conditions
At Yorkshire Sports Knee Clinic, we offer a comprehensive range of surgical treatments tailored to your specific knee condition. Our highly experienced team of surgeons uses advanced, minimally invasive techniques designed to enhance recovery, reduce post-operative discomfort, and restore full function to the knee. Whether you’re an athlete looking to return to sport or someone managing chronic knee pain, we provide expert care to help you regain mobility and improve your quality of life.
Surgical Services
ACL Reconstruction at Yorkshire Sports Knee Clinic
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injuries are a common issue among athletes and active individuals, typically caused by sudden stops, pivoting movements, or direct impacts. These injuries can significantly impair knee stability and function, making surgical intervention necessary for many people aiming to return to sports or high-impact activities.
At Yorkshire Sports Knee Clinic, we specialise in ACL reconstruction, using minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques to help restore full knee function, reduce recovery time, and minimise scarring. Our comprehensive approach ensures that every stage of your treatment, from your initial consultation to post-surgical rehabilitation, is personalised to provide the best possible outcome for you.
Understanding ACL Injuries
The Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) is a key ligament in the knee, responsible for stabilising the joint during movements that involve rotation and sudden direction changes. ACL tears are commonly seen in sports like football, rugby, skiing, and basketball. Symptoms of an ACL tear include:
- Sudden pain and swelling in the knee after injury.
- A “popping” sensation at the time of the tear.
- Difficulty walking or bearing weight.
- Knee instability, particularly during pivoting or twisting movements.
ACL reconstruction is typically recommended for active individuals or athletes who wish to return to sports or prevent further knee damage and instability.
Advanced Surgical Techniques for ACL Reconstruction
At Yorkshire Sports Knee Clinic, we use cutting-edge arthroscopic techniques that allow for smaller incisions, less tissue damage, and faster recovery. We also offer a variety of graft options and advanced fixation techniques to ensure the best result tailored to your needs.
All-Inside Technique:
We use the all-inside arthroscopic technique, a bone-preserving method that minimises the size of bone tunnels, reducing surgical trauma and post-operative pain. This technique allows for a faster recovery and helps preserve bone stock for any future procedures, if needed.
Graft Options:
We provide different graft choices to suit individual preferences and needs, including:
- Hamstring Tendon Graft: A popular choice for its durability and minimal impact on surrounding tissues.
- Quadriceps Tendon Graft: Suitable for patients who require a thicker graft, this option provides excellent stability with a lower rate of donor site complications.
Double Suspensory ACL Reconstruction
Double Suspensory Technique : To ensure the highest level of graft fixation and knee stability, we employ the double suspensory technique, where the graft is securely fixed at both ends using advanced suspensory devices. This provides strong, reliable graft stability and optimises the integration of the new ligament, allowing for quicker rehabilitation.
High Success Rate and Benefits of ACL Reconstruction
At Yorkshire Sports Knee Clinic, our ACL reconstruction procedures have a high success rate in restoring knee stability, preventing further joint damage, and allowing patients to return to their desired level of activity. Key benefits of ACL reconstruction include:
Restored Knee Function and Stability
By reconstructing the ACL, knee stability is restored, allowing patients to safely resume pivoting and high-impact sports.
Prevention of Future Knee Damage
ACL reconstruction helps prevent secondary damage to the cartilage and menisci, reducing the risk of osteoarthritis.
High Return to Sports Rates
Approximately 90% of patients return to sports within 9-12 months following ACL reconstruction, provided they follow a structured rehabilitation program.
The Surgical Pathway for ACL Reconstruction
1. Initial Consultation:
A thorough clinical assessment, including a physical examination and medical imaging (e.g., MRI), is conducted to confirm your ACL injury and identify any associated knee damage (e.g., meniscal tears). During this consultation, your goals and lifestyle will be discussed to determine the best surgical plan for you.
2. Surgical Planning:
Based on your specific condition, the surgeon will recommend the most appropriate surgical technique and graft option (hamstring or quadriceps tendon). If you are considered high risk for re-rupture—such as patients under 24 years old, female athletes in pivoting sports, or professional athletes—additional stabilising procedures like Lateral Extra-Articular Tenodesis (LET) or Anterolateral Ligament (ALL) reconstruction may also be recommended.
3. Preoperative Preparation:
You will receive detailed guidance on how to prepare for surgery, including prehabilitation exercises to strengthen the knee and advice on optimising your readiness for surgery. Preoperative conditioning has been shown to enhance post-surgical outcomes and recovery speed.
4. Surgery:
ACL reconstruction is performed arthroscopically as a daycare procedure under general anaesthesia (GA). The minimally invasive nature of the surgery allows for smaller incisions, less tissue disruption, and minimal post-operative pain. Most patients are able to go home the same day.
5. Postoperative Care:
After surgery, a tailored rehabilitation plan will be developed for you. This plan typically includes:
- Phase 1 (First Few Weeks): Focus on reducing swelling, improving range of motion, and protecting the new graft.
- Phase 2 (4-12 Weeks): Gradual strengthening exercises, with an emphasis on building the quadriceps and hamstrings and improving balance.
- Phase 3 (3-6 Months): Progression to running and low-impact activities, while continuing to strengthen the knee.
- Phase 4 (6-12 Months): Return to sport-specific training and activity, ensuring full recovery before resuming competitive sports.
6. Long-Term Follow-Up:
Regular follow-up appointments will monitor your progress, ensuring the graft is healing properly and your rehabilitation is on track. Ongoing guidance will be provided to help you safely return to your sport or other physical activities. Long-term follow-up care helps optimise your recovery and minimise the risk of reinjury.
Advanced Options for High-Risk Patients
For patients who are at an increased risk of ACL graft re-rupture, such as younger athletes, females in pivoting sports, or professional athletes, we offer additional procedures like Lateral Extra-Articular Tenodesis (LET) or Anterolateral Ligament (ALL) Reconstruction. Studies, including the STABILITY trial, have demonstrated that combining LET or ALL with ACL reconstruction reduces the risk of graft failure by up to 65%, providing added protection and rotational stability.
Why Choose Yorkshire Sports Knee Clinic for ACL Reconstruction?
At Yorkshire Sports Knee Clinic, we focus on delivering the most advanced, evidence-based surgical techniques to ensure the best possible outcome for your ACL reconstruction. Whether you're an elite athlete or simply want to return to your active lifestyle, we provide tailored solutions to restore your knee's function and stability. With a 95% success rate in ACL reconstruction, you can trust that our team will guide you through the entire process—from surgery to full recovery—with the utmost care and precision.
Lateral Extra-Articular Tenodesis (LET) & Anterolateral Ligament (ALL) Reconstruction for ACL Graft Protection
Lateral Extra-Articular Tenodesis (LET) and Anterolateral Ligament (ALL) reconstruction are advanced surgical techniques used to enhance knee stability and protect the Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) graft after reconstruction. At Yorkshire Sports Knee Clinic, we specialise in these procedures, particularly for patients at higher risk of ACL graft failure, ensuring optimal stability and long-term knee health.
Understanding Knee Instability and ACL Injuries
ACL injuries are common, particularly in athletes and active individuals. While ACL reconstruction restores the primary ligament function, some patients may continue to experience residual instability, especially during pivoting or rotational movements, which increases the risk of graft failure. Lateral Extra-Articular Tenodesis (LET) and Anterolateral Ligament (ALL) reconstruction, when combined with ACL reconstruction, provide additional stability, reducing the risk of reinjury and protecting the ACL graft.
LET and ALL Reconstruction: How They Protect the ACL Graft
Lateral Extra-Articular Tenodesis (LET):
LET involves rerouting a portion of the iliotibial band (ITB) and passing it under the Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL) before securing it to the femur and tibia. This technique helps control excessive rotational forces and valgus stress, providing critical protection to the ACL graft, especially in high-demand activities such as pivoting or cutting.
LET Procedure Using Modified Lemaire Technique
Incision for LET Procedure
Anterolateral Ligament (ALL) Reconstruction:
The ALL is an essential ligament on the outer side of the knee, contributing to rotational stability. Reconstructing the ALL with a tendon graft alongside ACL reconstruction offers added protection for the ACL graft, particularly in cases of rotational instability.
Anatomy of the Anterolateral Ligament (ALL)
ALL Reconstruction
Evidence from the STABILITY Trial and Medical Literature
The STABILITY trial has provided compelling evidence that combining LET with ACL reconstruction significantly reduces the risk of graft re-rupture, particularly in high-risk populations. The trial demonstrated the effectiveness of LET in enhancing rotational control and protecting the ACL graft, particularly for younger, high-risk patients and athletes.
Key findings from the STABILITY trial include:
- Reduced Graft Re-rupture Rates: Patients undergoing ACL reconstruction with LET had a nearly 65% reduction in graft re-rupture rates compared to ACL reconstruction alone, particularly in young, active individuals.
- Better Rotational Control: LET was found to significantly improve rotational stability, which is particularly beneficial for athletes involved in pivoting sports.
Additional evidence from the medical literature supports these findings:
- Young Athletes Under 24 Years Old: Studies show that patients younger than 24, especially those involved in high-demand sports, face a higher risk of ACL graft failure. The addition of LET has been shown to reduce the risk of re-rupture from 10%-15% down to 2%-4% in this age group.
- Females in Pivoting Sports: Female athletes, especially those playing sports such as football, netball, and basketball, are at increased risk of ACL injury due to the nature of their sport and anatomical factors. The combination of LET or ALL reconstruction with ACL repair is highly recommended for reducing the risk of reinjury.
- Professional Athletes: In high-level sports, where the physical demands are extreme, the combination of LET and ACL reconstruction provides crucial protection against re-rupture, allowing athletes to return to their sport with confidence.
When Are LET and ALL Reconstruction Recommended?
LET and ALL reconstruction are recommended in several key patient groups
where the risk of ACL graft failure is higher, including:
Patients under 24 years old
Particularly those engaged in pivoting or high-impact sports such as football, rugby, skiing, and basketball.
Female athletes
Women involved in sports that involve frequent cutting, pivoting, or jumping movements, such as football, netball, and basketball, are at a higher risk for ACL re-injury, making LET/ALL highly beneficial.
Professional athletes
Those participating in elite-level sports benefit from the additional stability provided by LET or ALL reconstruction, allowing for safer return to competition.
Patients with a history of failed ACL reconstruction
Or those with significant rotational instability or ligament laxity.
Complex knee injuries
Involving multiple ligament damage where additional stabilisation is required.
Why Choose Yorkshire Sports Knee Clinic for LET & ALL Reconstruction?
At Yorkshire Sports Knee Clinic, our team of expert surgeons specialise in advanced knee stabilisation procedures such as LET and ALL reconstruction. By using evidence-based techniques and the latest research, including insights from the STABILITY 2 trial, we focus on reducing your risk of reinjury and ensuring long-term knee health. With our comprehensive approach, you can return to your active lifestyle or professional sport with confidence.
Knee Arthroscopy
Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat a variety of knee conditions, including meniscus tears, cartilage damage, and ligament injuries. This technique employs small incisions and a camera (arthroscope) to visualise the joint, allowing for faster recovery times and less post-operative pain.
At Yorkshire Sports Knee Clinic, we offer knee arthroscopy as an ideal option for patients seeking precise diagnosis and repair of internal knee issues without the need for major surgery.
Benefits of Knee Arthroscopy:
- Minimally Invasive: The use of small incisions reduces tissue damage, promoting quicker healing and minimising scarring.
- Reduced Pain and Recovery Time: Patients typically experience less pain and can return to their normal activities more swiftly compared to traditional open surgery.
- Accurate Diagnosis: The arthroscope allows for a clear view of the knee joint, facilitating accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment for various conditions, including:
- Meniscus Tears: Repairing or trimming damaged meniscal tissue to restore knee function.
- Cartilage Damage: Addressing issues with articular cartilage to promote healing and alleviate pain.
- Ligament Injuries: Assessing and repairing ligament damage, contributing to overall knee stability.
The Knee Arthroscopy Surgical Pathway:
- Initial Consultation: A thorough assessment involving clinical examination and imaging studies (e.g. MRI) to determine the need for arthroscopy.
- Surgical Planning: The surgeon will explain the procedure, discuss potential risks, and outline the expected outcomes tailored to your specific knee condition.
- Preoperative Preparation: Guidance on how to prepare for surgery, including any necessary pre-surgical tests and recommendations for optimising knee health prior to the procedure.
- Surgery: Conducted as a daycare procedure under general anaesthesia (GA), ensuring you feel no discomfort during the surgery. You will be able to return home on the same day without an overnight stay.
- Postoperative Care: A personalised rehabilitation plan, including physiotherapy, to help restore movement, strength, and function in the knee.
- Long-Term Follow-Up: Regular evaluations to monitor recovery progress, address any concerns, and assist in your return to daily activities and sports.
By utilising knee arthroscopy, we aim to provide effective treatment for knee conditions while ensuring a smooth recovery process, enabling you to return to your active lifestyle as soon as possible.
Knee Arthroscopy
Meniscal Repair
Meniscal repair is a crucial surgical procedure designed to treat tears in the meniscus, a vital cartilage structure in the knee that provides cushioning and stability. At Yorkshire Sports Knee Clinic, we specialise in this procedure, offering tailored solutions to restore knee function and enhance long-term joint health.
Understanding Meniscal Injuries
Meniscus tears are common, particularly among athletes and active individuals, and can occur due to acute trauma or degenerative changes. When a meniscus tear occurs, patients may experience pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the knee.
Meniscal Repair vs. Partial Meniscectomy
Meniscal Repair
This technique involves stitching the torn edges of the meniscus together, promoting natural healing and preserving as much of the meniscal tissue as possible. Repair is often preferred, especially for tears in the vascularised regions where blood supply is adequate for healing.
Partial Meniscectomy
In some cases, when a tear is too complex or located in an area with limited blood supply, a partial meniscectomy may be performed. This procedure involves removing the damaged portion of the meniscus rather than repairing it. While this can relieve pain, it may lead to an increased risk of future joint degeneration.
Types of Meniscal Tears
Arthroscopic Image Demonstrating Meniscal Repair
The Meniscal Repair Surgical Pathway
- Initial Consultation: We conduct a comprehensive assessment, including clinical evaluation and imaging (e.g. MRI), to determine the best course of action for your meniscal injury.
- Surgical Planning: Your surgeon will discuss the specifics of the meniscal repair, the expected outcomes, and any potential risks. The technique chosen will depend on the nature and location of the tear.
- Preoperative Preparation: You will receive guidance on optimising your knee health before surgery, which may include prehabilitation exercises to strengthen the knee.
- Surgery: The meniscal repair is performed arthroscopically as a daycare procedure under general anaesthesia (GA). This means you will feel no discomfort during the surgery and can go home the same day, without the need for an overnight stay.
- Postoperative Care: Following surgery, a tailored rehabilitation protocol will be established. This typically includes:
- Early Rehabilitation: Focus on gentle range-of-motion exercises to prevent stiffness and promote healing.
- Strengthening Phase: Gradually incorporating strength training to restore muscle function around the knee.
- Return to Activity: A structured plan to safely return to sports and daily activities, with guidance from our physiotherapy team.
Long-Term Follow-Up: Ongoing assessments to track your recovery progress and adjust rehabilitation protocols as needed, ensuring optimal outcomes.
By opting for meniscal repair at Yorkshire Sports Knee Clinic, you are choosing a comprehensive approach aimed at restoring your knee function and allowing you to return to your active lifestyle with confidence.
Cartilage Surgery
Cartilage surgery encompasses a range of procedures designed to treat damage to the cartilage in the knee, an essential tissue that provides cushioning and support for joint movement. At Yorkshire Sports Knee Clinic, we specialise in addressing various types of cartilage injuries to restore knee function and alleviate pain.
Understanding Cartilage Injuries
Cartilage injuries can occur due to acute trauma, overuse, or degenerative conditions, leading to symptoms such as pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Effective treatment is crucial, as damaged cartilage can impact overall knee health and function.
Types of Cartilage Surgery
- Chondroplasty: This procedure aims to smooth and reshape damaged cartilage surfaces. Using minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques, our surgeons remove loose cartilage and debris from the joint, promoting a healthier environment for the knee. Chondroplasty is often performed when the cartilage damage is mild and can alleviate symptoms, improving overall function.
- Microfracture: This technique stimulates the formation of new cartilage by creating small fractures in the underlying bone, allowing healing cells to penetrate the damaged area.
- Osteochondral Grafting: Involves transplanting healthy cartilage and bone from a donor site or using an artificial scaffold to repair damaged areas. This method is effective for larger lesions, providing a more durable solution.
- Osteochondral Lesion Fixation: This procedure is designed for specific cases where there are osteochondral lesions (areas of damaged bone and cartilage). The fixation stabilises the lesion, allowing for better healing and integration of new cartilage tissue.
- Minced Cartilage Implantation (AutoCart): This innovative technique involves harvesting a small amount of cartilage from the patient, which is then minced and reintroduced into the knee joint. This procedure is beneficial for patients with larger cartilage defects and promotes healing by utilising the patient’s own tissue.
- Autologous Matrix-Induced Chondrogenesis (AMIC): This procedure combines microfracture with a collagen membrane to support cartilage regeneration. The collagen acts as a scaffold for the body’s own cells to grow into new cartilage, offering a more robust solution for repairing damaged areas.
The Cartilage Surgery Surgical Pathway
- Initial Consultation: We provide a thorough assessment, including physical examination and imaging (e.g., MRI), to evaluate the extent of cartilage damage and determine the most suitable treatment.
- Surgical Planning: Your surgeon will discuss the details of the recommended procedure, expected outcomes, and any potential risks associated with the surgery.
- Preoperative Preparation: Guidance will be provided on how to prepare for surgery, which may include prehabilitation exercises to optimise knee strength and function.
- Surgery: Cartilage surgery is typically performed as a daycare procedure under general anaesthesia (GA), ensuring you feel no discomfort during the operation. You will be able to go home the same day, eliminating the need for an overnight stay.
- Postoperative Care: Following the procedure, a personalised rehabilitation plan will be established, focusing on:
- Initial Recovery: Gentle range-of-motion exercises to enhance mobility while protecting the surgical site.
- Strengthening: Gradually incorporating strengthening exercises to support knee stability and function.
- Activity Progression: A carefully monitored return to sports and daily activities, with continuous support from our physiotherapy team.
- Long-Term Follow-Up: Regular follow-ups will track your recovery progress and ensure the rehabilitation protocol is adjusted as needed for optimal outcomes.
By choosing cartilage surgery at Yorkshire Sports Knee Clinic, you are selecting a dedicated approach to restore your knee function and improve your quality of life, allowing you to return to your active lifestyle confidently.
Multi-Ligament Surgery
Multi-ligament surgery is a specialised procedure designed to address injuries involving multiple ligaments in the knee, such as the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), medial collateral ligament (MCL), and lateral collateral ligament (LCL). These complex injuries often occur in high-impact sports or traumatic accidents and require precise surgical intervention to restore knee stability and function.
Understanding Multi-Ligament Injuries
Injuries to multiple ligaments can lead to significant knee instability, pain, swelling, and reduced range of motion. Accurate diagnosis and comprehensive treatment are vital for optimal recovery and return to an active lifestyle. Multi-ligament injuries can vary in severity, often necessitating a tailored surgical approach to address the specific damage.
The Surgical Procedure
- Assessment and Planning: At Yorkshire Sports Knee Clinic, our surgeons conduct a thorough evaluation, including imaging studies (such as MRI) and a clinical examination, to determine the extent of the ligament damage. This assessment helps in formulating an effective surgical plan tailored to the patient’s needs.
- Surgical Approach: Multi-ligament surgery can be performed using either arthroscopic (keyhole) techniques or open surgery, depending on the ligaments involved and the complexity of the injury:
- Arthroscopic Techniques: Utilising small incisions and a camera, this minimally invasive approach leads to faster recovery times and reduced postoperative pain. It is typically employed for less complex injuries or when addressing multiple ligaments simultaneously.
- Open Surgery: In cases where there is significant damage or complex reconstruction is required, an open surgical approach may be necessary. This allows for direct access to the knee structures and is used when the injury requires extensive repair.
- Reconstruction Techniques: During the surgery, ligaments are reconstructed using grafts from either the patient’s own tissue (autografts), from donors (allografts), or synthetic grafts. Options may include:
- Hamstring Tendon Grafts: Harvested from the patient’s hamstring, providing a strong and flexible option for ligament reconstruction.
- Patellar Tendon Grafts: Utilising the central portion of the patellar tendon, this method is often employed for ACL reconstruction.
- Quadriceps Tendon Grafts: A less common option, suitable for specific cases requiring additional strength.
- Synthetic Grafts: In certain cases, synthetic materials can be used as grafts. These are designed to mimic the properties of natural ligaments and provide structural support while the body heals. This option can be particularly beneficial for patients with limited tissue availability or specific reconstruction needs.
- Combined Ligament Reconstruction: Our surgeons have expertise in performing simultaneous reconstruction of multiple ligaments, ensuring a comprehensive approach that addresses all areas of instability in a single surgical session. The surgical team will also evaluate the need for additional stabilising procedures if necessary.
The Multi-Ligament Surgical Pathway
- Initial Consultation: A detailed assessment is performed, including imaging studies and a discussion of symptoms and treatment goals.
- Surgical Planning: The surgical team will recommend a tailored approach, outlining the graft choice and the specific ligaments to be reconstructed.
- Preoperative Preparation: Instructions will be provided on how to prepare for surgery, including prehabilitation exercises to strengthen the knee and enhance recovery.
- Surgery: The procedure is conducted as a daycare surgery under general anaesthesia (GA), meaning you won’t feel anything during the operation. Depending on the complexity of the surgery and the specific ligaments involved, an overnight stay may be required for closer monitoring and care.
- Postoperative Care: After surgery, a personalised rehabilitation programme is established, which includes:
Long-Term Follow-Up
Continuous monitoring and follow-up appointments ensure a successful recovery, with adjustments made to the rehabilitation programme as needed. The goal is to restore full knee function and allow the patient to return to their active lifestyle with confidence.
By undergoing multi-ligament surgery at Yorkshire Sports Knee Clinic, you are taking a crucial step towards regaining knee stability and returning to your active lifestyle with confidence. Our dedicated team is committed to providing exceptional care throughout your surgical journey and recovery.
Osteotomy Surgery
Osteotomy surgery is a surgical procedure designed to realign the bones of the knee joint to enhance function and alleviate pain, particularly in patients suffering from osteoarthritis or malalignment. This approach is particularly beneficial for younger, active individuals who wish to preserve their natural knee joint and delay the need for a total knee replacement.
Understanding Osteotomy Surgery
- High Tibial Osteotomy (HTO): This procedure is performed on the tibia (shin bone) to shift the weight-bearing axis of the knee, often indicated for medial compartment osteoarthritis.
- Tibial Slope Osteotomy: This technique is specifically utilized in cases of ligament injuries or revision ligament surgery. It involves adjusting the slope of the tibia to improve knee stability and function, especially in patients with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) deficiencies.
- Rotational Osteotomy: This technique involves rotating the bone to address malalignment affecting knee stability, which may be necessary for certain alignment issues.
- Femoral Osteotomy: This technique involves cutting and repositioning the femur (thigh bone) to address lateral compartment osteoarthritis or patellar instability.
- Double Level Osteotomies: This approach is used when multiple correction points are necessary for complex malalignment cases, involving both the tibia and femur.
Patient underwent HTO procedure after having pain on the inside of the knee with mild to moderate arthritis. After re-aligning the leg, the patient is now completely pain free.
The Surgical Procedure
- Assessment and Planning: At Yorkshire Sports Knee Clinic, our surgeons conduct a thorough evaluation, including imaging studies (such as X-rays, MRI, and special long alignment X-rays) and a detailed clinical examination, to assess the degree of malalignment and joint degeneration. This assessment guides the surgical plan.
- Surgical Approach: Osteotomy is performed as an open surgery, allowing direct access to the bones for precise realignment. Arthroscopy may be used to assist during the surgery, providing enhanced visualization and allowing for supplementary procedures if necessary.
- Realignment: The surgeon will cut the bone at specific angles, reposition it to correct malalignment, and then stabilize it with plates and screws. This corrective procedure aims to redistribute weight and relieve pressure on the damaged area of the joint.
Postoperative Care
After surgery, the recovery process can be managed as a day case or may require an overnight stay, depending on the complexity of the procedure. A comprehensive rehabilitation protocol is initiated to ensure a smooth recovery. The surgery is typically conducted under general anaesthesia (GA), meaning you will not feel anything during the operation and can often return home the same day for many procedures.
Postoperative
Long-Term Follow-Up
Regular follow-up appointments will monitor the recovery process, allowing for adjustments to the rehabilitation programme as needed. The goal is to restore full knee function, minimise pain, and enable a return to an active lifestyle within approximately six months post-surgery.
By choosing osteotomy surgery at Yorkshire Sports Knee Clinic, you are taking a significant step towards relieving knee pain and enhancing mobility. Our dedicated team is committed to providing exceptional care throughout your surgical journey and recovery, ensuring you receive the support you need to regain your active lifestyle.
Knee Replacement Surgery
Knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a procedure designed to relieve pain and restore function in patients with severe knee joint damage, often due to arthritis or injury. At Yorkshire Sports Knee Clinic, we utilise advanced surgical techniques, including robotic-assisted surgery and personalised jigs, to ensure precise alignment and optimal outcomes for our patients. We also use modern knee replacements, which are among the best-performing implants listed on the National Joint Register, ensuring you receive top-quality care.
Understanding Knee Replacement Surgery
Knee replacement can be classified into total knee replacement (TKR) and partial knee replacement (PKR), depending on the extent of joint damage. The procedure involves removing damaged cartilage and bone, then replacing them with artificial components.
- Total Knee Replacement (TKR): In TKR, the entire knee joint is replaced, making it suitable for patients with widespread damage.
- Partial Knee Replacement (PKR): This option is for those with damage confined to one area of the knee and preserves healthy bone and cartilage in other areas.
Robotic Knee Surgery
Robotic-assisted knee surgery enhances the precision of the procedure, allowing for individualised fitting of the implant based on the patient’s unique anatomy. This approach can lead to less tissue damage, reduced recovery times, and better alignment of the knee implant.
Personalised Jigs
In conjunction with robotic techniques, personalised jigs are utilised to assist in the accurate placement of knee implants. These custom tools are designed based on preoperative imaging, providing a tailored fit that enhances the precision of the surgery. This results in improved alignment and stability of the implant, further contributing to better postoperative outcomes.
Arthritic Knee X-ray versus Healthy Knee X-ray
The Surgical Procedure
- Assessment and Planning:
- A comprehensive evaluation is conducted, including X-rays and MRI scans to assess knee damage and determine the best surgical approach.
- For robotic-assisted procedures, advanced imaging techniques create a 3D model of the knee, which guides the surgical plan.
- Surgical Approach:
- The surgery is performed under general anaesthesia (GA) or spinal anaesthetic, allowing you to remain comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure.
- The operation can be done through minimally invasive techniques or traditional open surgery, depending on the patient’s condition and surgeon’s preference.
- Implantation:
- Damaged cartilage and bone are removed, and the implant is secured using bone cement or press-fit techniques.
- If robotic assistance is used, the robot guides the surgeon in positioning the implant with extreme accuracy.
- Personalised jigs are employed to ensure that the implant is placed correctly, enhancing the overall surgical outcome.
Postoperative Care
After knee replacement surgery, recovery can be managed as a day case or may require an overnight stay, depending on the complexity of the procedure. A personalised rehabilitation protocol is initiated to ensure a smooth recovery.
Long-Term Follow-Up
Regular follow-ups will monitor recovery and adjust rehabilitation as necessary, aiming for a return to full activity within six months post-surgery. With robotic knee surgery, personalised jigs, and the use of modern knee replacements that are highly rated on the National Joint Register, we strive to achieve optimal results and enhance your quality of life
Patellar Instability Surgery
Patellar instability surgery is performed to stabilise the kneecap (patella), preventing recurrent dislocations and improving knee function. At Yorkshire Sports Knee Clinic, we offer a range of advanced procedures to address patellar malalignment and instability. These are particularly beneficial for patients who have experienced repeated dislocations or failed non-surgical treatments. Our procedures include Medial Patellofemoral Ligament (MPFL) reconstruction, lateral release, lateral lengthening, VMO (Vastus Medialis Obliquus) advancement, and more complex osteotomiessuch as coronal alignment osteotomy and derotation osteotomy.
Surgical Techniques for Patellar Instability
- MPFL Reconstruction: Reconstruction of the MPFL using either a hamstring graft or synthetic graft, attaching the graft to the patella and medial femoral condyle to restore stability and prevent further dislocation.
- Lateral Release & Lateral Lengthening: In lateral release, tight lateral structures are cut to allow the patella to track more centrally. Lateral lengthening can be an alternative to release, preserving stability while allowing proper alignment.
- VMO Advancement: This procedure involves shifting the Vastus Medialis Obliquus muscle to better align the patella, aiding in stabilisation.
- Tibial Tubercle Transfer: Repositioning the tibial attachment of the patellar tendon to improve patella tracking.
- Coronal Alignment Osteotomy: Realignment of the leg bones to correct malalignment and reduce stress on the patella, often performed for patients with significant valgus or varus deformities.
- Derotation Osteotomy: Used in cases where rotational abnormalities of the femur or tibia contribute to patellar instability. This technique involves surgically rotating the bone to a better alignment.
For patients needing additional stability or more complex correction, these procedures can be combined, and synthetic grafts may be used to improve outcomes, particularly in high-demand athletes or patients at risk of recurrence.
Lateral Dislocation of Patella
MPFL Reconstruction to prevent lateral dislocation of patella
The Surgical Procedure
- Preoperative Planning: A thorough assessment, including clinical examination and imaging (X-rays, MRI, CT scans), is done to plan the procedure. We also assess the overall alignment of the leg, especially if an osteotomy is needed.
- Surgery: The procedure can be performed under general or spinal anaesthesia, depending on patient preference and complexity. MPFL reconstruction, lateral release or lengthening, and VMO advancement may be performed as isolated procedures or combined with coronal alignment or derotation osteotomies. In cases where patellar instability is linked to significant misalignment, an osteotomy is used to adjust the bone angles for better patellar tracking.
- Minimally Invasive Options: Wherever possible, arthroscopic techniques are used to minimise scarring and improve recovery times.
Postoperative Care
This surgery may be performed as a day case or require an overnight stay, depending on the complexity. A comprehensive rehabilitation protocol is key to ensuring a successful recovery and restoring knee function.
Long-Term Follow-Up
Regular follow-up appointments will ensure your progress is closely monitored. Full recovery and return to high-level sports usually occur within 6–9 months, depending on the complexity of the procedure and adherence to the rehabilitation programme.
Pre- and Post-Surgery Information
What to Expect Before Surgery
Before undergoing any knee surgery, our team will provide you with a detailed consultation to discuss the procedure, review your medical history, and outline the steps needed to prepare for surgery. This may include pre-operative assessments, fitness planning, and information on how to optimise your recovery.
Post-Surgery Rehabilitation and Recovery Tips
Post-surgery care is a critical part of your recovery. At Yorkshire Sports Knee Clinic, we provide a comprehensive rehabilitation plan tailored to your surgery type and individual needs. Our physiotherapy partners will work with you to ensure a safe and effective recovery, focusing on regaining strength, mobility, and confidence in your knee. We’ll also offer guidance on managing pain, when to return to normal activities, and exercises to help you stay active in the long term.
Connect With Us
If you’re experiencing knee pain or injury, don’t wait. Book a surgical consultation today or request more information about our advanced knee surgery services and treatment options. Our dedicated team is here to help you get back to the activities you love.
