During total knee replacement surgery, Dr. Berger creates a small, 3- to 4-inch incision along the kneecap to reveal the end of the thigh bone, the top of the shin bone, and the back of the kneecap: the arthritic knee. While preserving the soft tissues, Dr. Berger begins by removing the arthritis on the bottom of the thigh bone, using special guides to help shape the bone so the prosthesis fits securely. He then removes arthritic bone from the top of the shin and the back of the kneecap. At this time any bone spurs or scar tissue that may have formed will be removed.
Next, Dr. Berger uses sizer pieces that range in increments of millimeters to measure the patient’s bone and determine the perfect-fit prosthesis. Upon reaching the optimal size, he secures the first part of the prosthesis to the end of the thigh bone using cement. The second part of the prosthesis is cemented to the top of the shin bone. He then snaps a polyethylene liner to the top of the shin bone component. This liner acts as cartilage and facilitates smooth and fluid movement. The final piece of the prosthesis is a polyethylene liner that is cemented to the back of the kneecap.
What Is Minimally Invasive Outpatient Total Knee Replacement?
A total knee replacement is a surgical procedure to replace the damaged surfaces of the knee joint with durable, artificial components. Dr. Richard Berger’s minimally invasive outpatient total knee replacement technique takes this procedure to the next level by offering patients a faster, less painful recovery—all without the need for an overnight hospital stay.
This innovative approach focuses on preserving healthy tissue and using smaller incisions, allowing patients to regain mobility and return home the same day.
Who Is a Candidate for Total Knee Replacement?
You may benefit from a total knee replacement if:
- You experience severe pain that interferes with daily activities like walking, climbing stairs, or sleeping.
- Your knee has been damaged by arthritis, injury, or wear and tear.
- Non-surgical treatments like medications, physical therapy, or injections no longer provide relief.
- You want to regain an active lifestyle and improve your quality of life.
Dr. Berger evaluates each patient individually to determine if minimally invasive total knee replacement is the best option.
Why Choose Dr. Berger’s Minimally Invasive Technique?
Dr. Berger’s total knee replacement method is designed to reduce pain and speed up recovery while delivering long-lasting results. Here’s how it stands apart:
- Smaller Incisions: A shorter incision and precise surgical techniques minimize trauma to surrounding muscles and tissues.
- Muscle-Sparing Approach: Key muscles and tendons are preserved, reducing post-surgical pain and swelling.
- Quicker Recovery: Patients often walk unassisted within hours of surgery and return to normal activities in weeks rather than months.
- Outpatient Surgery: Go home the same day to recover in the comfort of your own home, avoiding lengthy hospital stays.
- Natural Feel & Function: Advanced implants and precise alignment result in a knee that feels stable and moves naturally.
Benefits of Outpatient Total Knee Replacement
Dr. Berger’s minimally invasive approach offers a range of benefits, including:
- Less Pain: Advanced pain management techniques reduce discomfort during and after surgery.
- Faster Mobility: Most patients are able to walk the same day and return to everyday activities sooner.
- Convenience: Recover at home with personalized support from Dr. Berger’s team.
- High Success Rates: Patients report significant improvement in pain, mobility, and quality of life.
