If you’re living with severely painful knees, we know frustrating that can be, especially if physical therapy or other treatments haven’t brought the relief you need.
At Central Maine Healthcare, we specialize in total and partial knee replacement, in which an injured or arthritic joint is replaced with state-of-the-art, artificial components. In addition to relieving pain, the knee replacement can restore function and mobility and get you back doing what you need and love to do.
One of our board-certified orthopedic surgeons can help determine if knee replacement or another treatment is right for you. One of our board-certified orthopedic surgeons can help determine if hip replacement or another treatment is right for you. If so, you can count on the highest standards of care close to home, with a program that has earned the Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval®, among other national distinctions.
You can also see every step of the process by watching our knee replacement videos.
Techniques to Help Free You from Knee Pain
Knee replacement may sound extreme, but it is one of the most common and effective procedures performed in the U.S., with approximately half a million knee replacements each year.
At Central Maine Healthcare, you can find even more peace of mind: our surgeons are trained in the latest, most minimally invasive options available to help you get moving again sooner.
With total knee replacement, damaged cartilage and bone are removed from the knee joint. Specially designed parts, called prostheses, are then placed in the knee. These pieces may be placed in up to three surfaces in the knee joint:
- Lower end of the thigh bone (femur). The replacement part is usually made of metal.
- Upper end of the shin bone (tibia), which is the large bone in your lower leg. The replacement part is usually made from metal and a strong plastic.
- Back side of your kneecap (patella). The replacement part is usually made from a strong plastic.
As an alternative to total knee replacement, we also offer partial knee replacement. This procedure may be an option if your arthritis is confined to one area of the knee, and conservative treatments like physical therapy, medication or weight loss no longer provide relief.
Because only a single portion of the knee is replaced, you may experience less post-operative pain, a shorter hospital stay, faster recovery and a more natural-feeling joint.
Support for Every Step
When it comes to joint replacement, the more informed you are, the better your experience. We offer a pre-operative class, so you know just what to expect before, during and after your procedure.
Along the way, you’ll also have the support of a dedicated team through our Core Connect Care™ system – which keeps you with the same surgeon, physical therapists, specially trained support staff and nurses every step of the way.
Faster Recovery
Knee replacement no longer has to mean lengthy hospital stays. Our personalized orthopedic rehabilitation programs, available right on-site and in outpatient therapy locations, can you help get back on your feet faster. In fact, a therapy services may have you up and moving the same day as surgery.
Orthopedic Excellence, Close to Home
The Orthopedic Institute of Central Maine offers locations near where you live and work – so you never had to travel far to find the world-class care you need:
- Central Maine Medical Center – Lewiston, Maine
- Bridgton Hospital – Bridgton, Maine
- Rumford Hospital – Rumford, Maine
Knee Replacement Videos
We know that the more informed you are about, and engaged in, your treatment and recovery protocols, the more quickly you will recover and be able to resume your normal activities. That’s why we place such strong emphasis on patient and family education and letting you know what is happening every step of the way. The Youtube videos below will keep you informed about the process as you go thru knee replacement surgery and recovery.