SIMPLIFIED TOTAL KNEE REPLACEMENT (STKR )
Technique Sparing Bone & Structures
by H.A.Khawaja, MD, Specialist Plastic Surgeon
Traditional knee replacement surgery has been proven to be highly successful at alleviating pain and restoring mobility. However, rehabilitation after traditional surgery can be lengthy and painful. People often postpone knee replacement, not wanting to be away from work and everyday activities for months. Others are concerned about bigger incisions.
Recently, Dr H A Khawaja has introduced STKR technique, which spares bones and all structures within the knee joint. Knee joint Replacement is carried out naturally and without the use of artifical implants, which can have a number of serious implications in certain group of individuals.
The benefits of STKR Technique include:
- No trauma to muscles and tendons—the quadriceps tendon and muscles are avoided rather than cut through or manipulated
- Smaller, less disruptive incisions—3 to 5 inches versus 8 to 12 inches
- Quicker recovery
- No General Anesthesia
- No blood loss
- No pain
- No hospital stay
As with every surgery, the results of the “mini total knee” depend on the patient’s personal circumstances, including a variety of factors, such as weight, activity level, bone quality, and compliance with the physical therapy program.
The Knee
The knee works as a hinge, joining the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone). Cartilage acts as a cushion between the bones, preventing them from grinding directly against one another. Muscles and tendons connect the bones and keep the joint stable. In a healthy knee, all of these factors work together seamlessly.
The STKR Technique:
The surgery is performed under “Khawajas Simplified Knee Anesthesia”, using highly specialized instruments. Special guides and instruments allow the procedure to be done utilizing the smaller incision discussed earlier. STKR total knee joint replacement is carried out. Once the surgeon has completed this procedure, the incision is closed.
The surgery usually takes less than 1 hour. No drains are used and the incision is covered by a sterile bandage.
Post-operatively, there is some degree of operative swelling, which subsides quickly. A rehabilitation program is begun in the hospital, as soon as possible following the surgery. Immediately after surgery, the patient is helped to stand; within the first 24 hours, the patient begins walking, usually using a walker. A home exercise program and physical therapy will then be prescribed. Follow-up visits with the surgeon are scheduled within the first one to two weeks after the surgery.
Within weeks of the surgery, most patients are able to walk with a cane or with no support at all. Some patients are even able to resume most normal activities (other than driving) within seven to ten days after surgery. Of course, these recovery times vary with each individual.
The goal of a successful total knee replacement is to relieve pain and stiffness and allow a return to normal daily activities. However, of course, there are still some restrictions—contact sports or activities that put excessive strain on the knee are not allowed. The surgeon and his staff give clear guidelines to each patient, and following these are in the patient’s best interest.