Tuesday, 4 April 2023

HIP INJURIES: TYPES, SYMPTOMS, PREVENTION AND SURGERY

 

The hip is one of the joints most affected by injuries and degeneration of bones and cartilage. For this reason, adequate treatment carried out by an orthopaedic surgeon in Dwarka is important, to help avoid chronic injuries that affect the patient’s quality of life.

What are the most frequent hip pathologies?

The hip is the joint that serves as a union for the femur and the pelvis, it is one of the joints of the human body most affected by age. In many cases, hip pathologies are due to degeneration of the bones and tendons.

Depending on the causes and symptoms, numerous hip injuries can be differentiated. One of the most common is hip bursitis, which is caused by inflammation of the synovial bag of the trochanter. The bursa protects the hip from impact and contributes to the mobility of the joint.

Trochanteritis is characterized by inflammation of the trochanter, which is the protruding femur located in the upper part of the leg. In these cases, the patient often experiences radiating pain down the leg.

Another of the most common hip injuries, especially among athletes, is hip groin pain. This pathology is produced by an affectation to the muscles of the inguinal area, caused by repetitive movements of the joint. Finally, hip osteoarthritis is one of the most common pathologies, which is characterized by the wear and degeneration of the hip bones, which can cause hip breaks or fractures.

Causes of hip injuries

Hip injuries do not have a specific cause, however, there are common causes observable in most patients with hip pathologies. First of all, muscular imbalances, that is, a progressive loss of strength in the hip muscles that increases the risk of injury. In these cases, it is common for the patient to also have a lack of flexibility in the area.

In addition, as has been mentioned, one of the most frequent causes of hip pathologies is age , which accelerates the degeneration of bones and cartilage, increasing the chances of suffering a joint injury.

Finally, overtraining or overexertion of the joint can be the cause of different injuries, since it causes muscle fatigue in the area.

Symptoms of hip pathologies

Usually, hip pathologies are manifested by acute pain in the joint that, on many occasions, radiates along the legs. It is common for this pain to appear accompanied by inflammation and immobility in the area, so the patient will experience difficulty in performing certain movements.

Sometimes, the patient may have a sensation of heat in the area, especially in those cases in which inflammation appears. As well as weakness and immobility in the hip and legs.

Diagnosis of hip injuries

When the patient goes to the best orthopaedic in Dwarka manifesting symptoms of a hip injury, in the first place, he will undergo a physical examination, in which the possible existing inflammation will be studied, as well as those points in which there is greater pain.

In most cases, especially those in which there is suspicion of hip rupture or fracture, it will be necessary for the patient to undergo diagnostic imaging tests, such as X-rays or magnetic resonance imaging, which will allow the available information to be expanded.

Best treatments for hip injuries

Once a complete diagnosis of the lesion has been made, the most appropriate treatment for each patient will be prescribed by orthopaedic in West Delhi. First of all, it is usually advisable to carry out a period of rest, which is accompanied by the application of cold in the area. The patient is usually prescribed an anti-inflammatory treatment, which helps to alleviate existing pain.

In cases of inflammatory and muscular injuries of the hip, treatment with physiotherapy can offer good results, since it contributes to the strengthening of the area and, therefore, reduces the risk of future injuries.

Surgery for hip injuries

In cases of advanced osteoarthritis, or hip breaks and fractures, the most common treatment is surgery. There are different types of hip surgery, one of the most common is hip replacement in Delhi the implantation of a prosthesis made of synthetic material, which can assume the function of the joint.

In other cases, it is decided to carry out a bone repair, through the implantation of screws and surgical material, which allows the joint to recover mobility.

Tips to prevent hip injuries

In those cases, in which hip injuries are caused by a degeneration of the joint, it is difficult to establish guidelines to avoid them. However, there are certain recommendations, which can be useful to protect the hip joint from injuries in the short and long term.

First of all, it is important to control body weight, since the higher the BMI, the pressure on the joint will be greater and, therefore, the risk of degeneration of bones and tendons, too. In addition, it is important to treat the injuries correctly and applying a treatment prescribed by an orthopaedic doctor in Delhi. In this way, the relapse of injuries will be avoided, as well as the appearance of new pathologies.

It is advisable to carry out exercises that help strengthen the hip musculature, as well as to avoid sports practices that suppose an excessive impact on the joint.

As explained, the treatment of hip injuries is essential to avoid the chronification of pathologies. By following certain guidelines, the chances of developing the lesion can be significantly reduced.

Tuesday, 18 October 2022

Disc Herniation

What is

Disc herniation occurs when an intervertebral disc degenerates and deteriorates, causing the inner nucleus to leak into a weakened area on the outside of the disc.

The weak point in the outer nucleus of the intervertebral disc is directly below the spinal nerve root, so a herniation in this area can put direct pressure on nearby nerves or the spinal cord.

Therefore, herniated discs are sometimes a cause of radiculopathy, which encompasses any disease that affects the nerve roots of the spine.

Dr Ashu Consul, best orthopaedic in Dwarka, consultant at Venkateshwara Hospital, adds that, initially, herniated discs can be confused with the following pathologies: “piriformis syndrome, facet arthropathies, deep gluteal syndrome, peripheral neuropathies, muscle trigger points and, in more severe cases, tumors”.

Causes

The vertebrae of the spine are separated by discs that cushion movement and leave space between the vertebrae. In the same way, they allow their movement, which makes it possible to bend down or stretch out.

In addition, the vertebrae of the spine protect the spinal cord that comes from the brain and runs down the back to the lower back. The discs fulfill a very important function of cushioning and distribution of loads and any damage to them can be serious if not treated quickly.

The disc can move out of place, that is, herniate, or rupture due to injury or stress. This can cause excess pressure on the spinal nerves resulting in pain, numbness or weakness in the patient.

Normally, herniated discs are located in the lumbar region, with the second most affected area being the cervical discs (the neck).



Symptoms

A cervical disc herniation can cause pain in the neck, which in turn can radiate to the arm, shoulder, or can cause numbness or tingling in the arm or hand. Sometimes the pain can be dull, constant, and difficult to locate.

In addition to this pain, the symptoms of herniated discs are the following:

  • The first sign that the patient has a herniated disc is pain in the arms and neck. If numbness or tingling occurs it may indicate that the problem is more serious.
  • Typically, the patient complains of sharp, cutting pain, and in some cases, there may be a prior history of episodes of localized pain, present in the back and radiating down the leg.
  • The episode of pain may come on suddenly or be heralded by a tearing or snapping sensation in the spine.
  • When the pain starts slowly, it can worsen after the patient spends a long time sitting, standing, at night, when sneezing, coughing or laughing.
  • Weakness is also a common symptom that affects the leg or arm and may require excessive effort to move them.
  • Usually, the numbness or weakness goes away over a period of several weeks or months. 

Prevention

According to Orthopaedic in Dwarka, “exercising regularly and appropriately is important. Also avoiding leading a sedentary lifestyle, being overweight and smoking helps prevent this type of back pathology. Finally, avoid unnecessary risks such as lifting heavy objects, improperly bending or twisting the lower back, or sitting or standing in the same position for many hours and in an unergonomic way.

Types

There are three degrees:

  • Disc protrusion: when the nucleus pulposus has not yet come out of the annulus fibrosus, it is therefore weaker and gives way in its structure. This is the first stage of a herniated disc.
  • Disc herniation: the material of the nucleus pulposus is ejected from the limits of the annulus fibrosus.
  • Disc extrusion: the exit of the disc material is violent and breaks the posterior common vertebral ligament, leaving free fragments in the vertebral canal. 

Diagnosis

To diagnose a herniated disc, the orthopaedic doctor in Delhi will carry out a medical examination of the spine, arms and lower extremities. Depending on the region where the patient's symptoms are located, the orthopaedic in Delhi will look for possible numbness or loss of sensitivity.

In addition, he will test your muscle reflexes, which may have been affected and slowed down or even disappeared. He will also study the patient's muscle strength and the shape of the curvature of the spine. 

On the other hand, the patient may also be asked to sit, stand or walk, bend forward, backward or sideways and move the neck, shoulders or hands.

Diagnostic tests that can verify the existence of a herniated disc are:

  • An electromyography that will determine which nerve root is affected and where it is compressed.
  • A myelography to specify the size and location of the hernia.
  • An MRI that will show if there is pressure on the spinal cord.
  • Finally, an X- ray of the spine may also be performed to rule out other injuries that cause cervical or back pain.

Treatments

The first treatment given to patients with this condition is short rest and pain medication, followed by a period of physiotherapy session with physiotherapist in Dwarka. In most cases, almost immediate recovery occurs, but in other cases medication or injections may be required.

In the case of corticosteroids, they are usually administered, above all, non-steroidal anti -inflammatory drugs to control pain and also muscle relaxants. 

Injections into the area of ​​your back where the herniated disc is located can help control pain for a few months. In addition, these injections greatly reduce the swelling of the disc.

The last option is microdiscectomy, considered as the surgery that is used to relieve pressure on the nerve root and allow the nerve to recover more effectively. This type of intervention does not entail great difficulty, since it is usually enough with a small incision and one night of admission. 

Regarding the therapeutic approach to herniated discs, Orthopaedic in West Delhi states that "one of the most important advances has occurred in the increased precision of diagnostic tools, which has made treatment much more effective and specific, both in management conservative as in the surgical. From the surgical point of view, the trend is towards minimally invasive, what we commonly know as microsurgery, so that the tissues suffer the least negative impact after the surgical intervention”.

At what age do herniated discs usually appear?

“Disc herniation can appear at any age, since its causes are multifactorial. Although, it begins to be more frequent in the range of 30 to 50 years of age. And they are more prevalent after the age of 50, where it is estimated that more than 80% of the population begins to show disc degeneration”, says orthopedic in Delhi.

Wednesday, 17 August 2022

Achilles tendon rupture - treatment, surgery

 

What is Achilles tendon rupture?

An Achilles tendon rupture or rupture occurs when the tendon “ruptures or tears” leading to separation or discontinuity in the tissues that make up the tendon.

In terms of anatomy, the Achilles tendon, a sort of fibrous “ribbon” or “cord” that connects muscle to bone, is the largest and strongest tendon in the body that connects the calcaneus (heel bone) to the medial gastrocnemius muscles., lateral gastrocnemius and soleus muscles (popularly known as calf muscles or “leg belly” muscles). When the muscle contracts, it “pulls” the tendon, which in turn moves the foot.

The rupture often reflects the previous existence of tendinosis phenomena caused by sports microtraumas or degeneration (aging) of the tendon. In most cases, the tear occurs at the bottom of the tendon (just above the heel), but it can occur anywhere along the tendon. In the presence of a healthy tendon, the lesion can appear in the bone or muscle.

Total ruptures, partial ruptures

We can generically classify Achilles tendon ruptures into:

  • Total rupture – in the total rupture of the Achilles tendon, the tissues break completely, that is, the tendon is completely “separated”.
  • Partial rupture – in a partial rupture of the Achilles tendon, the tendon does not completely rupture, only an incomplete rupture occurs. Partial tears can vary greatly in severity according to the extent of the injury.

A total rupture is more frequent than a partial rupture. As a rule, a total rupture is a more serious injury when compared to a partial rupture and with more exacerbated symptoms. A partial tear can also present with pain that can range from moderate to severe and, if not recognized, it can quickly progress to a total tear.

See more information on treatments to better understand the different therapeutic approaches according to the extent of the lesion.

Achilles tendon rupture – causes

The Achilles tendon can lose elasticity and become “weak and thin” with age and lack of use. Then, it becomes prone to injury or breakage.

Rupture is more common in people with pre-existing Achilles tendonitis (tendon inflammation). Repetitive tendinitis and the consequent calcifications are a risk factor for tendon rupture.

Certain diseases (such as arthritis and diabetes) and medications (such as corticosteroids, for example) can also increase the risk of rupture.

Rupture occurs most often in the middle-aged male athlete. The injury usually occurs during recreational sports that require impacts with the ground, running, jumping, etc. Most of the time, these are football, athletics, tennis, basketball, among others. Injury can happen in these situations as a result of traumatic dorsiflexion when the muscle is strongly contracted causing it to tear.

Breaks can, however, also occur in everyday activities. For example, when falling from a significant height, when entering a pothole abruptly, traffic accidents, etc.

Achilles tendon rupture – symptoms

The signs and symptoms of Achilles tendon rupture are:

  • Sudden, severe pain may be felt in the “back” of the ankle or the “tummy of the leg”, often described as “being hit by a rock or shot” or “like someone stepping on the back of the ankle”;
  • A loud clicking sound can be heard;
  • A discontinuity (“gap”) or depression (void) can be felt and seen in the tendon above the calcaneus (heel bone);
  • Inability to stand on tiptoe on the affected side;
  • Initial pain, swelling (swelling) and stiffness may be followed by bruising and weakness (not being able to land on the foot, walking).

Achilles tendon rupture – diagnosis

The diagnosis is made by the orthopaedic doctor in Delhi after collecting the clinical history, performing the physical examination and some complementary means of diagnosis (MCDT).Bottom of Form

A simple test is to “stretch” the “calf or calf muscles” while lying on your stomach (Thompson test). In the impossibility of being able to elevate the foot, there is, most likely, a rupture in the tendon. This test isolates the connection between the “calf muscles” and the tendon and eliminates other tendons that may still allow poor movement.

The orthopaedic doctor in Dwarka may order the following tests to confirm the diagnosis and to know in greater detail the location and degree of severity of the lesion:

  • Plain radiography (XR) – not being a very useful exam, it can identify a bone fragment avulsion of the calcaneus;
  • Ultrasound or ultrasound – Ultrasound of the leg and thigh can help assess the possibility of deep vein thrombosis and can also be used to rule out a Baker’s cyst (or cyst). Ultrasound can identify Achilles tendon rupture or signs of inflammation (tendinitis or tendinosis);
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) – MRI is extremely sensitive for diagnosis and allows you to determine if there is still a tendon in continuity. It allows other diagnoses such as tendinitis, tendinosis and bursitis.

Pain in the “back of the heel” is not always due to an Achilles tendon rupture. In the differential diagnosis, tendinitis (inflammation of the Achilles) and bursitis (inflammation of the bursae) should be considered, among the most frequent pathologies that cause pain in the Achilles region.

Achilles tendon rupture – treatment

The objective of the treatment is to restore the function of the tendon, for this, it is necessary that the tissues that make up the tendon heal “united” with each other. In this way, it will be possible for the patient to return to the same level of activity before the injury. Regaining Achilles tendon function after an injury is critical to making walking possible.

Treatment reflects a balance between tendon protection and initial movement. Protection is necessary to allow time for healing and to prevent further injury. Moving the foot and ankle is necessary to prevent stiffness and loss of muscle strength.

We can divide treatment options into surgical and non-surgical. Conservative (non-surgical) treatment consists of a set of therapeutic attitudes aimed at healing the tendon and restoring its function without resorting to any type of surgical intervention.

The choice between surgical and non-surgical treatment can be controversial in some cases. Both surgical and non-surgical treatment will require an initial period of approximately six weeks of immobilization. For most patients, both treatment options have good functional results.

NON-SURGICAL TREATMENT

Nonsurgical treatment is often used for non-athletes or for people with a low general level of physical activity who will not benefit from surgery. In the elderly and people with clinical complications, conservative (non-surgical) treatment should also be considered as a first option.

Initially, a cast below the knee is performed with the foot in equinus (foot in marked plantar flexion, “down”). Although it is not routine, it is possible to perform an MRI to verify that the tops of the tendon are in contact. The cast is changed, at intervals of two to four weeks, to slowly stretch the tendon back to its normal length. This treatment usually takes 8 to 12 weeks. During this period, global strengthening and flexibility exercises are taught.

SURGERY (SURGICAL TREATMENT)

Surgery on Achilles tendon rupture is often indicated in healthy and active people who want to resume activities such as walking, running, cycling, etc. Even those who are less active may be candidates for surgical repair of the tendon. The decision to operate should be discussed with your orthopaedic surgeon in Delhi.

Surgery should not be performed if there is an active infection or damaged skin at or around the Achilles tendon rupture site. In addition, some diseases or lifestyle habits, such as diabetes, smoking habits, sedentary lifestyle, steroid use and inability to follow instructions after the operation, may be a contraindication for surgery.

Surgical intervention for an Achilles tendon rupture is usually performed on an outpatient basis. This means that the patient is operated on and goes home the same day.

We can identify two distinct surgical approaches:

The first is to perform the intervention percutaneously, allowing to perform a minimally invasive surgery, through small incisions. A kind of needles with attached sutures are passed, allowing the Achilles tendon to be sutured.

The second approach is the open approach (traditional method, where the surgeon makes an open incision to access the tendon). This starts with an incision made in the back of the leg, just above the calcaneus (heel bone). After the best orthopaedic in Dwarka finds the two ends of the torn tendon, these ends are sutured. The incision is subsequently closed.

The surgical technique will be previously determined by the orthopaedic in West Delhi, depending on the type and location of the rupture, among other factors. In the postoperative period, regardless of the surgical technique chosen, the patient is immobilized with an equinus foot.

Despite being a safe surgery, some complications can arise, such as risks associated with anesthesia, infection, damage to nerves and blood vessels and bleeding or blood clots, among others. A new rupture can also occur (recurrence).

Recovery after surgery

After the surgery, the patient is placed with a splint or a “plaster boot” from the foot to the knee. Usually, the patient cannot walk or put weight on the involved leg. Crutches, a walker or a wheelchair are used to allow the patient to remain mobile for the first few times. Patients are encouraged to keep the operated leg elevated above the level of the heart to decrease swelling (swelling) and pain.

Patients are usually seen in the office two weeks after surgery. The splint or cast is removed, and the surgical incision is evaluated. Stitches are usually removed at this point if necessary. After two to six weeks, depending on postoperative protocol and orthopedic in Dwarka preference, patients may be allowed to begin performing some force. For this, a “hiking boot” can be used. Ankle movement is often allowed and encouraged.

After six weeks, full-body strength is generally allowed. Physiotherapy in Dwarka will need to be started and is intended to restore ankle range of motion. Strengthening of the “calf muscles” and Achilles is gradually allowed as the tendon heals. It is usually possible to resume full activity after six months. Recovery time after surgery can extend up to a year, until the patient can achieve full rehabilitation.

Even in cases where surgery is performed, the above-mentioned therapeutic attitudes are included in the rehabilitation plan. See more information on conservative treatment.

Monday, 18 July 2022

Hip Osteoarthritis Treatment

Hip arthrosis, also called coxarthrosis, belongs to a group of diseases called chronic degenerative diseases, that is, diseases that progressively evolve, affecting certain areas or tissues of the body.

In the case of osteoarthritis of the hip, there is progressive wear and tear of the cartilage of the hip joint.

This disease is also characterized by bone neoformation in the region where there was joint wear. These neoformed structures are popularly called parrot beaks.

Risk Factors for Hip Osteoarthritis

It is not known for sure why certain groups develop hip arthrosis, but it is known that some situations tend to increase the probability of developing this degenerative disease.

Among these factors are previous diseases of the hip, such as epiphysiolysis, in addition to septic arthritis, congenital dislocation, femoroacetabular impingement, rheumatism, fracture sequelae, as a result of previous surgeries, etc.

This pathology usually affects older people. In the case of previous diseases in the hip, it is called the pathology of secondary hip arthrosis. It is estimated that in the population over 65 years of age approximately 12% have symptomatic osteoarthrosis.

Symptoms

The main symptom of hip arthrosis is pain, located in the groin area. But the patient may report other symptoms such as difficulty performing simple movements such as bending down or bending, as well as joint stiffness and crepitus.

Other symptoms are pain in the buttocks area and the pain may be present even after a period of rest, especially at night.

Difficulty performing simple activities such as walking, climbing stairs, sitting or crossing the legs is present in cases of coxarthrosis.

As coxarthrosis is a progressive disease, the signs and symptoms also have a progressive evolution, that is, they can start in a very mild and little limiting way, but progress to intense and very limiting.

Thus, the first signs of coxarthrosis include joint stiffness, which starts bothering more in the morning, but tends to disappear during the day. In these cases, the limitation of movement is quite small.

With the passage of time and the evolution of the disease, joint involvement also increases and, as a result, the stiffness becomes greater and tends not to disappear during the course of the day. Even the pain can even radiate to other places, such as the lumbar spine, for example.

Rest no longer helps to improve the condition and the patient begins to feel pain in any location or position, feeling very uncomfortable even when lying down or standing still.

The consequence of this is that the patient increasingly decreases the level of movement and when he moves, he limps, trying to transfer the load to the other side of the body that does not present the pathology.

Although this seems like a temporary solution, it actually only worsens the situation, as it leads to muscle weakness in the leg and buttocks, which are extremely important musculature for hip protection.

Thus, it is important that a professional is sought when the first symptoms appear, so that the diagnosis is established and a good treatment plan made, precisely to prevent the natural progression of the disease from occurring.



Diagnosis of Osteoarthritis of the Hip

The diagnosis of this pathology is the responsibility of the orthopaedic doctor in Dwarka. Unfortunately, many patients are slow to seek medical help, believing that the pain and the situation will spontaneously improve, which is not the case with a degenerative disease.

Clinical evaluation is essential, with the professional collecting information about the pain history and medical history of that patient. In addition, some functional exams to check the patient's muscle capacity in the region are performed.

It is important to check the muscle condition of the leg, buttocks and thigh, to establish the degree of evolution of the disease.

Imaging tests may be ordered, such as X-rays and MRIs. These exams are important to be able to assess the degree of involvement of the joint surface.

The exam of choice for diagnosing hip arthrosis is the AP radiograph of the pelvis, also called pelvic panoramic, and the lateral view of the affected joint.

The other imaging tests are important when the orthopaedic doctor in Delhi wants to eliminate other possible causes of the problem.

The reduction of the joint space, as well as the presence of bony prominences in the region, are factors that are investigated with the analysis of the image exams.

Treatment of Hip Osteoarthritis

For the treatment of coxarthrosis, it is important to point out that not all cases require surgery, and conservative treatment is an excellent alternative that should be considered because of its positive results.

However, in some cases, depending on the level of joint involvement, surgery becomes unavoidable.

Conservative treatment for hip osteoarthritis

The approach should always be individualized and geared to the patient's lifestyle and expectations about treatment.

Depending on the degree of pain presented by the patient, the orthopaedic in Dwarka may prescribe appropriate analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce the acute pain. This is part of conservative treatment.

Physiotherapy in the Conservative Treatment of Hip Arthrosis

Physiotherapy in Dwarka is also indicated for pain reduction, since there are physiotherapeutic techniques that are quite suitable for acute pain.

Among these physical therapy techniques, we can highlight electrothermophototherapeutic resources, such as laser, TENS and ultrasound.

Other techniques include myofascial release and joint mobilizations.

From the reduction of pain, it is possible to focus on a second moment of conservative treatment with the support of physiotherapy in Delhi, seeking muscle strengthening and range of motion.

Activities such as water walking and water activities (hydrotherapy) can also be quite helpful.

At first, the exercises should start without movement, only isometric contraction. Then, with light contraction, then with manual resistance, elastic resistance and finally, resistance with weights.

Appropriate muscle strengthening for patients with coxarthrosis prevents the progression of the disease, as it makes the musculature absorb the necessary load from the patient's activities, preventing this load from being transferred to the compromised joint region.

The result is an improvement in the patient's physical condition, with reduced pain and improved functional and movement capacity.

Surgical Treatment for Osteoarthritis of the Hip

In some cases, due to the degree of involvement of the hip joint, the surgical indication ends up being the best option for the patient with coxarthrosis.

When there is a very large involvement of the joint region or in cases where conservative treatment has failed, the surgical option can be offered to the patient.

It is worth remembering that every surgical process has risks and that the patient will still have to undergo a long physical therapy rehabilitation after the surgery.

Therefore, orthopaedic in Delhi explains to the patient that, although the results of the surgery can be positive, physical therapy rehabilitation is essential.

The most indicated surgery for cases of hip arthrosis is arthroplasty or hip replacement in Delhi, but the indication of the surgical procedure will depend on several factors, such as the patient's age, etiology, degree of activity and range of motion.

In addition, it is important to check whether the disease is present in only one hip joint or in both.

Surgical procedures can be divided into three types:

- Osteotomies and arthroscopies: change the position of the hip bones;
- Fusion of the hip joint, called arthrodesis;
- Replacement of the hip joint with a prosthesis (arthroplasty).

Obviously, the most invasive surgical procedure of the three described is the replacement of the hip joint with a prosthesis. There is no rule, but in general, less invasive procedures are recommended in early cases.

Arthrodesis is now considered a disused technique. Arthroplasty, on the other hand, is considered one of the greatest successes in medicine in terms of surgery and there has been a lot of progress not only in the surgical technique but also in the materials to be placed as prostheses.

Even so, arthroplasty is indicated for the most severe cases of joint destruction.

Thursday, 19 May 2022

UNICOMPARTMENTAL KNEE PROSTHESIS

 

During knee replacement surgery in Delhi, the damaged bone and cartilage are covered with metal and plastic components. In a unicompartmental knee replacement (also called a “partial” knee replacement), only part of the knee is covered. This procedure is an alternative to total knee replacement for patients whose disease is limited to just one area of ​​the knee.

Because partial knee replacement is done through a smaller incision, patients generally spend less time in the hospital and return to normal activities sooner than patients undergoing total knee replacement.

ADVANTAGES OF PARTIAL KNEE REPLACEMENT

Several studies show that most patients who are suitable candidates for the procedure have good results with unicompartmental knee replacement in Delhi.
The advantages of partial knee replacement over total knee replacement include:

  • Faster recovery;
  • Less pain after surgery;
  • Less blood loss;

DISADVANTAGES OF PARTIAL KNEE REPLACEMENT

The disadvantages of partial knee replacement compared to total knee replacement include:

  • Slightly less predictable pain relief;
  • Potential need for more surgery. For example, a total knee replacement in Delhi may be necessary in the future if arthritis develops in the parts of the knee that were not replaced;

SURGERY CANDIDATES

If your osteoarthritis has advanced and non-surgical treatment options are no longer relieving your symptoms, orthopaedic in Dwarka may recommend knee replacement surgery in West Delhi. In order to be a candidate for unicompartmental knee replacement, your arthritis must be limited to one compartment of your knee. In addition, if you have any of the following characteristics, you may not be eligible for the procedure:

  • Inflammatory arthritis;
  • Significant knee stiffness;
  • ligament damage;

With proper patient selection, modern unicompartmental knee replacements have demonstrated excellent mid- and long-term results in younger and older patients.

YOUR SURGERY

A partial knee replacement operation typically lasts between 1 and 2 hours.

Partial knee replacement. There are three basic steps in the procedure:

  • Prepare the bone. Your orthopaedic surgeon in Dwarka will use special saws to remove cartilage from the damaged compartment of your knee;
  • Position the metal implants. The removed cartilage and bone are replaced with metallic coatings that recreate the joint’s surface. These metal pieces are typically held in the bone with cement;
  • Insert a spacer. A plastic insert is placed between the two metal components to create a smooth gliding surface;

COMPLICATIONS

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved with a partial knee replacement. Your orthopaedic surgeon in West Delhi will discuss each of the risks with you and take specific steps to help prevent potential complications.

Although rare, the most common risks include:

  • Blood clots. Blood clots in the leg veins are a common complication of knee replacement surgery. Blood clots can form in the deep veins of the legs or pelvis after surgery. Blood anticoagulants such as low molecular weight heparin and aspirin can help prevent this problem. Newer medications, such as rivaroxaban (Xarelto), may also be prescribed by your orthopaedic doctor in Dwarka, depending on your needs;
  • Infection. After surgery, an infection may occur in the skin over the wound or deep into the wound. An infection can happen while you are in the hospital or after you go home. You will be given antibiotics before the start of your surgery and these will be continued for about 24 hours afterwards to prevent infection;
  • Nerve or vessel damage. Although it rarely happens, nerves or blood vessels can be injured or stretched during the procedure;
  • continued pain;
  • Risks of anesthesia;
  • Need for additional surgery;

RECOVERY

Hospital discharge. Patients with partial knee replacement generally experience less postoperative pain, less swelling, and have easier rehabilitation than patients undergoing total knee replacement. In most cases, patients go home 1 to 3 days after the operation. Some patients go home on the day of surgery.

Weight support. You will begin putting weight on your knee immediately after surgery. You may need a walker, or crutches for the first few days or weeks until you feel comfortable enough to walk without assistance.

Rehabilitation exercise. A physiotherapist in Dwarka will give you exercises to help maintain your range of motion and restore your strength.

Tuesday, 17 May 2022

Patellar Instability or Patellar Dislocation

 

What is Patellar Instability or Patellar Dislocation?

The patella, formerly known as the kneecap, is the front bone of the knee, responsible for transmitting the strength of the thigh muscles. In some situations, this bone can move out of its normal location, called patellar instability or patellar dislocation, explains the orthopaedic in Delhi.

If the patellar dislocation occurred for the first time, it is called a primal patellar dislocation. From the second episode, it is called recurrent patellar dislocation.

What are the symptoms of patellar instability?

When a patellar dislocation occurs, there is severe pain and an inability to mobilize the knee. It is possible to see and feel that the patella has moved out of place.

Most of the time, the patella comes back into place on its own almost immediately. Rarely, a doctor needs to put it in place with a knee extension maneuver.

After a patellar dislocation, there may be a feeling of insecurity with the knee, even without the patella clearly moving out of place. This sensation is called a patellar seizure. It is a very uncomfortable symptom, which can interfere with normal activities, says the orthopaedic in Dwarka.

How and why does patella dislocation occur?

Patellar dislocation can occur from trauma, such as a blow or twist to the knee, or without trauma, in a common movement of the joint.

Some people have knee features that favor patellar dislocation. Among the main ones are:

  • High patella
    • The patellar tendon is longer, which makes the patella rest on the knee in a higher position, decreasing the bony socket at the beginning of knee flexion.
  • Increased patellar tilt
  • Femoral trochlea dysplasia
    • The groove on the femur where the patella fits can be shallower than normal, completely flat, or even convex.
  • Increase of the “Q” angle
    • “Q” angle is formed by the direction of traction of the thigh musculature and the direction of traction of the patellar tendon.
  • Patients with valgus knees (knees in, or in “X”)
  • Ligament laxity is also more predisposed.

What is the medial patellofemoral ligament?

The medial patellofemoral ligament is the structure that prevents dislocation of the patella. When the patella is displaced, it is injured or loosened.

When the patellar dislocation is treated without surgery, what is expected is that this ligament will heal. In the surgical treatment of patellar dislocation, reconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament is performed in most cases, explains the orthopaedic surgeon in Delhi.

Learn more about patellar dislocation treatments below.

How is patellar instability diagnosed?

The diagnosis of patellar instability is made through a careful assessment of the patient’s clinical history and physical examination, complemented with imaging tests.

The main test to be evaluated is magnetic resonance imaging, which shows indirect signs of dislocation, injury to the medial patellofemoral ligament, and the anatomical changes that favor instability. In addition, MRI is essential to look for cartilage lesions. Other tests, such as radiographs in special positions and computed tomography, are useful for evaluating the shape of the knee and predisposing factors, states the orthopaedic in west Delhi.

How is patellar instability treated without surgery? In what situation is he indicated?

In the case of a patient with an episode of patellar dislocation, both non-surgical and surgical treatment are possible. The decision for one or the other must be individualized, after a detailed discussion between the patient and the orthopaedic surgeon in Dwarka.

Non-surgical treatment involves immobilization for a period, followed by rehabilitation focused on exercises to strengthen and control the thigh and hip muscles. The goal of successful non-surgical treatment is the absence of new episodes of dislocation and patellar apprehension, the feeling of discomfort or buckling caused by instability, explains the orthopaedic surgeon in Dwarka.

In which cases is surgery indicated?

Situations that indicate treatment with patellar dislocation surgery are:

  • Recurrent episodes of dislocation (recurrent patellar dislocation)
  • Association with cartilage injuries
  • Symptoms of apprehension getting in the way of normal activities

Patients with a single episode of dislocation, although they can be treated without surgery, can also opt for surgical treatment. Surgery has the advantage of a lower chance of re-displacement or seizure symptoms for activities, says the orthopaedic surgeon in west Delhi.

What are patellar instability surgeries like?

According to the orthopaedic surgeon in Delhi, there are several procedures available for patellar instability, which are chosen according to the characteristics of each patient, and there may be a combination of procedures. This concept of individualized treatment is known as à la carte treatment, influenced by the French school.

These are the most common procedures performed for patellar dislocation.

  • Reconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament
    This ligament is the main restrictor of patellar dislocation, and its reconstruction is indicated in almost all cases. It is a graft from the patient’s own tendon to remake the ligament.
  • Lateral release (or release)
    Release of structures that hold the patella on the side or outside, when there is excess tension. Can be done openly or arthroscopically (video surgery)
  • Tibial tuberosity osteotomy
    A cut is made in the tibial bone to reposition the point where the patellar tendon attaches. This transfer allows for patellar realignment or patellar height correction.
  • Trochleoplasty
    Correction of the shape of the femoral trochlea, the groove where the patella rests on the femur.
  • Treatment of cartilage injuries
    When cartilage injuries also exist, these may also need specific treatment.

How is the postoperative period and rehabilitation?

Postoperative care depends on the technique used. They usually involve a period of support with crutches and a knee brace. However, from the beginning, it is already allowed to put the foot on the floor and remove the immobilizer to move the knee in most situations. Rehabilitation includes restoring knee mobility and restoring strength and control of the musculature of the thigh, hip, and trunk.

Thursday, 5 May 2022

What are the symptoms of hip bursitis?

 

Bursitis in the hip is an inflammation in a hip pouch, called a “bursa”. It is a relatively common problem and is known to cause pain and generate various discomforts for the patient. It is part of the great trochanter pain syndrome and is associated with hip tendinitis as well. Being treated by the best orthopaedic in Dwarka, this disease unfortunately leaves many patients with their movements reduced, as well as prevents the hip from being flexed, for example. It can be caused by several factors, bursitis is uncomfortable, but with the correct diagnosis can be easily treated.

Hip expert: knowing what bursitis is important to fight it!

Bursitis is a problem that can appear in both sedentary people and sportsmen and happens because of repetitive movements and overloads in the hip joint. Knowing your symptoms, causes and treatment is essential to get rid of these limiting pains and avoid the causes of bursitis. With the correct follow-up with the orthopaedic in Dwarka, this nightmare can have your days numbered. Learn more about bursitis and stay tuned for symptoms.

Pain

This is the main symptom of bursitis and is present in almost all cases. The most common complaint of patients with this problem is pain in the lateral face of the hip. This pain worsens when sleeping on the inflamed hip. The sensation is burning pain and usually worsens if the patient does not change position.

Discomfort for movement and pain to walk, get up and sit are also quite common, not to mention that staying for long periods of time in the same position can cause worsening of the pain as well. The pain of bursitis is characterized by radiating to the thighs, often confusing the patient, who thinks that the problem may be in another location.

Limitation

Slow movements, not being able to walk as before, having pain when tying shoes and cannot squat are the main signs of the limitation of bursitis. Because it is an inflammation of the bursas that are located on the lateral face of the joint, bursitis can actually cause problems in movements and in turn limit the daily activities of the patient.

Swelling

Bursitis can cause local swelling, which in turn can be felt manually by the patient. The location besides being palpable, may also be with increased temperature.

Pain to the touch

Touch pain also happens in bursitis. Often when touching the swollen region, the patient may feel pain. This happens because of the whole inflammatory process and also by the daily activities of the patient.

Hip bursitis is usually very painful and limiting. The patient is usually very concerned about the symptoms, but as a correct treatment, the resolution prognosis is usually excellent.

Causes of hip bursitis

The causes of the appearance of hip bursitis are varied:

  • Repetitive overload injury. Running, climbing stairs, cycling, or standing for long periods of time.
  • hip injury
  • Spine diseases.
  • Differences in the length of the legs.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Hip surgeries or hip replacement in Delhi that can irritate the bursa and cause bursitis.
  • Bone spurs or calcium deposits that can develop in the tendons and irritate the bursa.

How long does hip bursitis last?

The duration of trochanteric bursitis cannot be determined in advance. In some cases, such as trauma, it can last for a short period of time, but sometimes if one is neglected it can become chronic.

When the pain subsides, begin to move slowly back to normal movement. At this time, it is important to have the support of a physiotherapist in Dwarka who will indicate the exercises to be performed to improve movement in the area.

With these simple actions, the bursitis will subside. But if it doesn’t, corticosteroid injections can be used, growth factors can be introduced to repair damaged tissues, or even combined with ozone therapy. The last option is surgery, if the previous methods are not effective.

How to treat hip bursitis?

In the treatment of hip bursitis, rest is essential, at least while the pain remains in its acute phase. Let your hip rest as long as possible. To do this, it may be convenient to use a cushion with an anatomical design and memory.

This cushion distributes the weight, avoiding excessive pressure and achieving adequate pelvic stability. With it you will be able to rest the hip and relieve the pain. And when you sleep, it is best to do it on your back or on the opposite side of the affected area, placing some pillows between your knees.

In addition, it is convenient to apply cold to the hip to reduce pain and inflammation. The orthopaedic in West Delhi will also recommend taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Without a doubt, the best treatment for hip bursitis is prevention. It is necessary to avoid that it appears for the first time or that new episodes arise. That’s why it’s important:

  • Avoid activities that overload the hip, such as being on your feet for a long time.
  • Lose weight if you are overweight or obese, to take pressure off the area.
  • Sit on cushions, to avoid excessive pressure in the area.
  • Do warm-up and stretching exercises before and after doing any physical exercise.
  • Avoid muscle atrophy with the performance of specific exercises.
  • Wear a comfortable shoe.
  • Correct bad posture and do not do activities that can cause pain in the area.

And above all, follow the advice of orthopaedic doctor in Dwarka to try to prevent hip bursitis from becoming chronic. Thus, you will avoid pain and the muscles in the area from atrophying.

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