Knee surgery plays a role in enhancing the quality of life for individuals dealing with knee related issues. Singapore is known for its exceptional services for knee surgery, where specialists incorporating state of the art techniques and specialized facilities. This article explores aspects of knee surgery in Singapore by discussing knee conditions, surgical choices, pre surgery preparations, post-surgery care, and the process of selecting the right surgeon and facility. Whether you’re researching for yourself or a loved one, this guide aims to offer an insight into the world of knee surgery in Singapore.
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If the knee sustains harm, surgery might become a requirement. This holds true especially when alternative pain management strategies fail to alleviate discomfort stemming from injuries or knee related issues like osteoarthritis. Throughout the procedure an anesthesiologist will oversee pain management for the patient’s comfort. Additionally, anesthesiologists play a role in administering operative pain relief to facilitate effective physical therapy and recovery post-surgery.
Overview of Knee Surgery in Singapore
Surgical intervention is no longer the last resort in managing knee injuries nowadays as it was previously, not only in Singapore but also globally. In the past, arthroscopy was the primary and preferred method of diagnosing and treating knee injuries. Prior to the invention of arthroscopy, knee surgery was only done in cases of trauma, tumors, or infections, as these procedures could only be performed with open surgery, without arthroscopy. Both arthroscopy and open surgeries have benefited from the numerous technological advancements made in knee surgery. Some of them have proven to be of great value and have been widely incorporated in many knee surgeries, resulting in better and safer outcomes for patients. However, while traditional knee surgeries are still employed in many medical facilities, the increasing preference for minimally invasive surgery has been fostered by the recent surge in technological advances in pharmaceuticals, anesthesia, and pre- and postoperative protocols.
Knee specialists, orthopedic surgeons, and community care orthopedic professionals were the primary group of trained professionals who usually perform knee surgeries in Singapore. It goes without saying that orthopedic surgeons are indeed highly trained and must have achieved educational and experiential credentials to become an orthopedic surgeon before further specializing in the arthroscopic surgery of cartilage and ligaments. One way of earning a degree in medicine is to study at a medical school. As a result, the medical residents of orthopedic surgery usually come from these schools and then progress through various medical institutions over the course of five years, including the tertiary medical or orthopedic center, the five national orthopedic centers, and in the fifth year, the traditional rotary program.
Specific Statistics on Success Rates
When we dig into the specifics to observe procedural success rates, the success rate for a total knee replacement is 85% when both functional improvements and durability are taken into account. Besides replacements, minimally invasive arthroscopic surgeries, a key procedure in local sports surgical services, are 40-80% of knee cases with an overall 4% reported complication rate at public hospitals. Together, this data may likely form a robust examination of whether or not surgical interventions are effective and over which period of time further analysis can be conducted, to observe how stable these changes are or if deteriorated outcomes are reported, i.e., 5 years and 10 years post-op and other longitudinal studies.
Success rates of medical procedures can be influenced by factors such as patient demographics, health status, and surgical techniques. In addition, the reviewed papers have a number of participants and have been rated by a benchmarking exercise to be of moderate-to-high methodological quality. Benchmarking of success rates may be reported in relationship to international standards or guidelines. Comparisons are made of orthopaedics performance across different surgery types against up-to-date international guidelines, and later juxtaposes the findings against leading international orthopaedics hospitals. In another study, local data and orthopaedic hospital are compared with global data.
Advantages of Knee Surgery in Singapore
Singapore provides superior knee surgery services due to the good and well-established social infrastructure, where physicians offer top-notch surgical care with access to advanced medical technology and research backing. The trained staff members are passionate about the work they do, and not a single individual dares to compromise in non-surgical patient care aspects such as physical therapy, nutrition, psychology, and prevention. On top of that, quality is guaranteed as more than 80% of private hospitals are approved by the Joint Commission International, a standard for high-quality care.
State-of-the-art medical technology and pioneering breakthroughs in orthopedic care have greatly enhanced surgery in Singapore. Post-operative care is very important; therefore, our physiotherapists and orthopedic clinic are well-equipped with air-conditioned physical therapy rooms, a gym, and private therapy areas for individual instruction. Not only does the government support medicine, but they also meet the needs of the people in terms of convenience and a high standard of care as well. The government is therefore looking to provide more funds, expertise, and promote public education as an important preventive health policy to ensure that Singaporeans are encouraged in the daily protection of their knees, right from young to elderly people. Singapore has launched a program to educate patients who need to undergo knee surgery to help them recover after surgery and to reduce the likelihood of complications later on for successful surgery. Many similar success stories are commonly shared between local doctors and international patients, and the successful completion of these treatments allows most locals in Singapore to return to their preferred trajectory of life very efficiently. The concern for quality global care in Singapore has made it an emerging hub for medical tourism, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. Around the region, “same-day” is now the main selling word for knee replacement in Singapore.
The most common knee injuries include strains and tears in the tissues like ligaments and meniscus, fractures and dislocations. Usually multiple parts of the knee are affected by these injuries. Pain and swelling are the signs of a knee injury. Sometimes the knee may feel stuck or locked. Certain knee injuries, such as an ACL tear can lead to a sensation of instability where it feels like the knee is giving out.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injuries – ACL injuries are often observed in athletes who participate in sports involving changes in direction or jumping like soccer, football and basketball. ACL tears can happen due to landings or swift movements. Activities like this may also cause damage to other structures in the knee such as cartilage meniscus or other ligaments.
Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Injuries – PCL damage can occur when significant pressure is exerted on the knee joint while it is bent. These types of injuries frequently occur during motor vehicle accidents and collisions during sports activities.
Collateral Ligament Injuries – These usually happen when the knee is pushed sideways by a force (or a collision). If the knee is pushed outward from an impact, it can harm the Lateral Collateral Ligament. While tears in the LCL are not as common as knee injuries, it may require medical intervention.
Meniscal Tears – These can occur from activities like twisting, cutting, pivoting or being tackled. They could also result from aging or arthritis (causing wear and tear). As people get older, their menisci may weaken, making them prone to tearing during daily movements like standing up or sitting down.
Tendon Tears – Tendon tears can affect the quadriceps and patellar regions due to stretching or tearing of tendons. These injuries are more prevalent in individuals engaged in running or jumping activities. Knee tendon issues may stem from trauma to the knee area or improper landings and jumps.
Fractures – Fractures often involve breaking of the patella bone near the knee area. Moreover, fractures could affect the ends of tibia bones that meet to form the knee joint. Knee fractures often occur due to high impact trauma like falls from heights or motor vehicle accidents.
Dislocation – Dislocation happens when the knee bones are not correctly aligned, either partially or completely shifting the femur, tibia and patella. While structural abnormalities can lead to dislocations in the knee. individuals usually experience this due to high energy trauma such as car accidents, falls or sports related contact.
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Having knee surgery can feel daunting for people. With today’s advancements in minimally invasive surgical methods, surgeons can now make small incisions without affecting the surrounding healthy tissue. Additionally, these procedures are often performed as outpatient surgeries allowing patients to go home on the day and have a quicker and more comfortable recovery.
Get ready in advance – It’s crucial to ensure that all your insurance, paperwork and other arrangements are sorted out before the surgery. This will help alleviate any concerns for both you and your family leading up to the procedure. Moreover, completing these tasks ahead of time will allow you to focus on your recovery afterward.
Communicate with your doctor – Understanding the specifics of the procedure and the post-surgery recovery period is vital. Being informed will help you mentally and emotionally prepare, while also assisting you in managing your expectations. Furthermore, you might need someone to help you after the surgery. It’s essential to have the support you need.
Get yourself physically and emotionally ready – It’s crucial to look after your body and mind before undergoing surgery. This could mean making lifestyle decisions like changing your diet, staying active, avoiding smoking, and handling stress. By doing this you’ll be in tiptop shape for the procedure.
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On the day of your knee surgery, you can expect an organized process to make sure you feel comfortable and safe. Here’s an overview of what you can look forward to:
Preparation – You’ll need to arrive at facility before your surgery time. A nurse or medical staff will help you with the admission process go over your history and address any questions.
Before Surgery Procedures – You’ll change into a gown. You may have an IV line inserted for fluids and medications. An anesthesiologist will talk to you about anesthesia options (regional or local).
Moving to the Operating Room – Once everything is ready, you’ll be taken to the operating room. The surgical team will prepare the area around your knee. Ensure you’re positioned correctly on the table.
Administering Anesthesia – With the help of local anesthesia, your knee area will be numb. You might stay awake or lightly sedated.
Surgical Procedure – The surgeon will carry out the steps based on the type of knee surgery planned. This may include fixing ligaments removing damaged tissue or substituting the knee joint with a prosthesis.
Monitoring and Support – During the surgery, the medical team will closely monitor your signs and anesthesia levels to ensure your comfort and stability.
Recovery and Observation – After the surgery is done, you will be taken to a recovery area. Nurses will keep an eye on your condition, pain levels and vital signs.
Post-Operative Instructions – Once you’re fully awake and stable, the surgeon or nurse will provide you with instructions on post-operative care, pain management, and mobility.
Discharge or Overnight Stay – Depending on the type of knee surgery and your overall health, you might go home on the day itself. In some cases, you may asked to stay overnight for additional observation and care.
Follow-Up – You will have to attend a follow up appointment to see your surgeon and assess how well you are recovering.
Throughout the day, expect support from the team who specializes in ensuring a smooth and safe surgical journey. It’s crucial to follow all operative and post operative instructions for a successful recovery following knee surgery.
Having knee surgery can feel overwhelming. There are steps you can take to make the recovery process smoother. Those who are well prepared and actively involved in their healing journey often see good outcomes.
Rest – While its common knowledge that a good night’s sleep is beneficial, many underestimate the importance of resting adequately post-surgery. It doesn’t mean you have to be confined to bed all day, although taking it easy for the initial days is highly recommended. However, it does emphasize the need to get sleep at night and take naps during the day. Ample rest is crucial for surgery recovery as it allows your body time to repair itself from the procedure. Being well rested also boosts your energy levels for therapy and other activities vital for healing. Generally, patients who prioritize rest tend to have recovery times compared to those who don’t. So, remember to prioritize getting rest.
Eat healthy – Maintaining a balanced diet is essential for everyone. Even more so for individuals recovering from surgery. Consuming nutritious foods can supply the body with nutrients needed for healing and reduce the risk of infections. It’s important to watch out for constipation, which might happen as a side effect of pain meds and lack of movement. Including a mix of fruits, veggies and whole grains in your diet can provide the nutrients and fiber to support health and smooth digestion. Staying well hydrated by drinking water is just as important.
Eat right – While it may not be obvious, maintaining some level of activity during the recovery phase after knee surgery is crucial. It’s essential not to push yourself as excessive activity could slow down the healing process. Engaging in therapy and gentle walking can help keep your joints flexible and prevent stiffness. Start with walks. Gradually increase the distance over time. If walking causes any discomfort or pain around the incision area take a break until it subsides. By listening to your body’s signals, staying active can help speed up your recovery process.
Use prescribed medicines – Recovering from knee surgery can be uncomfortable so it’s vital to adhere to the prescribed guidelines for pain relief medication. Overdoing it with medication can be risky. Pay attention to your body’s needs. Take breaks when necessary even if it means taking an extra nap.
You don’t have to suffer through pain; just talk to your doctor or surgeon about adjusting your recovery process. Make sure to let them know if you have any concerns, especially about the medication’s side effects. While the benefits of pain relief often outweigh the risks, it’s always wise to proceed with caution.
Undergoing knee surgery comes with risks and complications. Although these occurrences are generally uncommon it’s crucial to understand them before proceeding with any procedures. Some possible risks and complications associated with knee surgery include:
Infection – Infections may develop in the area where the surgery took place resulting in pain, swelling, redness and fever. Doctors often prescribe antibiotics to prevent or treat infections.
Blood Clots – Following surgery, blood clots (known as vein thrombosis) can form in the legs leading to swelling and pain. If a clot dislodges and reaches the lungs it can result in a condition called embolism.
Bleeding – There is a possibility of bleeding during or after surgery which may necessitate treatment or even a blood transfusion.
Nerve and Blood Vessel Damage – During surgery, nearby nerves and blood vessels may be unintentionally harmed, causing numbness, tingling sensations or loss of feeling in that area.
Allergic Reactions – Some individuals might have a response to anesthesia medications used during the procedure or materials utilized in the operation.
Pain and Stiffness – Although knee surgery aims to relieve pain, there may be discomfort and stiffness in the treated area during the healing period.
Scar Tissue Formation – Scar tissue can develop excessively within the knee joint leading to restricted movement and discomfort.
Issues with Implants – In knee replacement surgeries, complications may arise such as loosening or dislocation of the implant.
Delayed Healing – Some individuals might face delays in wound healing post surgery which could result in infections or the necessity for treatment.
Unstable Joints – After the procedure, there might be difficulties with the functioning of the knee joint causing sensations of instability or weakness.
Restricted Movement Range – Patients could encounter limitations in their range of motion following surgery potentially requiring therapy or interventions.
Persistent Pain – Despite efforts to alleviate pain there is a chance that pain could persist or resurface post procedure.
Anesthetic Complications – Responses to anesthesia can vary among individuals with a risk of reactions or complications.
It’s crucial to understand that these risks depend on factors, like the type of knee surgery performed, the patient’s overall health status and other variables. Surgeons take precautions to reduce risks. Patients are advised to diligently follow pre operative and post operative guidelines to minimize potential complications.
Before you go through knee surgery it’s important to have a conversation with your surgeon about the risks and complications. This discussion will help you make a informed decision about your treatment.
When considering knee surgery, it is crucial to select the perfect surgeon and clinic to ensure a recovery. The expertise and experience of your surgeon play a role, in the outcome of the procedure and your overall satisfaction. Here are some key factors to keep in mind when choosing a knee surgeon and clinic:
Qualifications and Experience – Look for a surgeon who specializes in knee surgery and has a wealth of experience performing the procedure you require. The qualifications, certifications and track record of the surgeon are indicators of their expertise.
Reputation and Reviews – Research the surgeon’s standing in the community. Read reviews from previous patients. Positive feedback can offer insights into the surgeon’s skills and patient care.
Hospital or Clinic Accreditation – Ensure that the hospital or clinic where the surgeon works is accredited and upholds standards of care, safety and cleanliness.
Advanced Techniques – Inquire about the techniques and technologies used by the surgeon. A practitioner who keeps abreast of advancements can provide you with an array of treatment options.
Communication and Bedside Manner – Choose a surgeon who listens to your concerns, answers your questions, and takes the time to explain the procedure and recovery process. A good rapport with your surgeon is essential for a positive surgical experience.
Collaborative Approach – Our orthopaedic surgeon collaborates with healthcare professionals like therapists and pain management specialists to ensure comprehensive care during your recovery process.
Personalised Treatment Plans – We customize treatment plans according to your needs and objectives. Tailored care can result in improved outcomes and a seamless recovery journey.
At Orthopaedic Pain and Practice, we take pride in providing orthopaedic care. Our team specializes in treatments for knee pain. We are committed to offering top notch patient centered services. From diagnosis to rehabilitation, we are here to support you every step of the way ensuring that your path towards knee wellness is smooth and successful. Get in touch with us today to arrange a consultation and initiate the steps toward a pain active lifestyle.
Knee surgery refers to a medical procedure performed on the knee joint to diagnose, treat, or repair various conditions, injuries, or diseases affecting the knee.
Knee surgery may be necessary for conditions such as osteoarthritis, ligament tears (like ACL), meniscal tears, fractures, and chronic pain that does not respond to conservative treatments.
Preparation typically involves following your surgeon’s specific instructions, which may include fasting before the procedure, stopping certain medications, and arranging for transportation to and from the hospital.
On the surgery day, you’ll undergo preoperative procedures, anesthesia administration, the surgical procedure, and postoperative monitoring before being transferred to a recovery area.
Recovery varies based on the type of knee surgery. It often involves physical therapy, pain management, and gradually returning to normal activities over a period of weeks to months.
Risks include infection, bleeding, blood clots, adverse reactions to anesthesia, and surgical complications. Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you.
Recovery times vary, but most patients can resume light activities within a few weeks. Full recovery may take several months, especially for more complex surgeries.
Pain is common after knee surgery, but your surgeon will prescribe pain medications and provide strategies for pain management during the recovery period.
When selecting a surgeon for knee surgery in Singapore, consider their qualifications and experience in performing the specific procedure you need. Additionally, look for positive patient reviews and ensure that the hospital or clinic is accredited.
If you have more questions about knee surgery or require personalised advice based on your condition, it is best to consult directly with an orthopaedic specialist who can provide tailored information and guidance.
Dr Yong Ren graduated from the National University of Singapore’s Medical faculty and embarked on his orthopaedic career soon after. Upon completion of his training locally, he served briefly as an orthopaedic trauma surgeon in Khoo Teck Puat hospital before embarking on sub-specialty training in Switzerland at the famed Inselspital in Bern.
He underwent sub-specialty training in pelvic and spinal surgery, and upon his return to Singapore served as head of the orthopaedic trauma team till 2019. He continues to serve as Visiting Consultant to Khoo Teck Puat Hospital.
Well versed in a variety of orthopaedic surgeries, he also served as a member of the country council for the local branch of the Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen (Trauma) in Singapore. He was also involved in the training of many of the young doctors in Singapore and was appointed as an Assistant Professor by the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine. Prior to his entry into the private sector, he also served as core faculty for orthopaedic resident training by the National Healthcare Group.
Dr Yong Ren brings to the table his years of experience as a teacher and trainer in orthopaedic surgery. With his expertise in minimally invasive fracture surgery, pelvic reconstructive surgery, hip and knee surgery as well as spinal surgery, he is uniquely equipped with the tools and expertise necessary to help you on your road to recovery.
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