Understanding Lateral Release in Knee Surgery

If you're considering lateral release surgery for your knee, it's important to understand the procedure and its potential benefits and risks. This blog can help.

People with specific knee issues may benefit from lateral release surgery to reduce knee discomfort and improve mobility. Before determining whether the procedure is the best choice for you, it's crucial to comprehend the process, its potential advantages, and its risks. You can use the information on this blog to help you decide whether to get lateral release surgery.

🔳 Overview



What is lateral release surgery?

A surgical treatment called lateral release surgery is performed to treat specific knee disorders like lateral patellar compression syndrome and patellofemoral pain syndrome.

Lateral patellar compression syndrome

When the patella (kneecap) is dragged toward the outside of the knee joint, a condition called lateral patellar compression syndrome, often referred to as lateral patellar tracking problem, develops. This may be brought on by conditions including overuse, muscular imbalance, or injury and may result in discomfort and pain on the outside of the knee.

Patellofemoral pain syndrome

On the other hand, patellofemoral pain syndrome is a general name for discomfort in the front of the knee that comes from the joint between the patella and the femur. (Thigh bone). It is a common problem among athletes and physically active people and can be brought on by several things, including excessive use, muscle inequalities, and knee joint misalignment.

The lateral retinaculum, a band of tissue on the exterior of the knee that aids in holding the kneecap in place, is cut, or released during the treatment. By loosening this tissue, the kneecap is given greater freedom to move, which eases strain and discomfort. When alternative non-surgical options, such as physical therapy or medication, have failed to offer relief, lateral release surgery is often seen as a last choice. While the surgery can significantly reduce pain, it is crucial to keep in mind that it is not always successful and includes some dangers, such as infection or damage to the nerves.

Who is a candidate for lateral release surgery?

Candidates for lateral release surgery may include patients with lateral patellar compression syndrome or patellofemoral pain syndrome who have not had relief from more conventional therapies including physical therapy, bracing, or medication. Surgery, however, is typically the last resort and is only used when all other options have failed. To find out if you are an appropriate candidate for the operation, you need to go through a complete evaluation with a licensed orthopedic surgeon. Age, general health, and the extent of the condition are some of the considerations.

🔳 Procedure: Before, During, and After

What Happens Before the Surgery?

You must first go through an extensive assessment by your orthopedic specialist before having lateral release surgery. An examination of the body and a review of your medical history will be part of this evaluation to see if you are a good surgical candidate.

To gain a better understanding of the knee joint and to assist in planning the surgical strategy, the surgeon can request imaging tests including X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans. To make sure you are sufficiently fit for the surgery, you might also need to submit to blood testing and other lab procedures.

Directions on how to be ready for the surgery, such as prohibitions on drinking and eating before the procedure, will be given to you. In the days preceding the surgery, you might also need to discontinue taking some drugs, like blood thinners.

You should prepare to have somebody be with you for the initial few days after the surgery to assist with daily tasks. You will also need to make transportation arrangements to and from the hospital or surgical center.

What happens During Surgery?

You are normally unconscious during lateral release surgery. On the outside of the knee, the surgeon makes a small incision to start. The surgeon can then locate the tight tissues producing the patellofemoral pain syndrome or lateral patellar compression syndrome by utilizing an arthroscope, a tiny camera, to study the knee joint.

The tight structures are then removed by the surgeon using a surgical instrument, allowing the patella to function more freely and relieving strain on the joint. To position the patella appropriately, the surgeon might occasionally have to cut off a little piece of bone.

Following the surgery, the surgeon could use sterile strips or sutures to close the wound before dressing it. In order to wake up from the anesthetic, you are subsequently transferred to the recovery room.

What Happens After the Surgery?

Patients often stay in a hospital for a short time following lateral release surgery to observe and monitor the knee. Any pain or discomfort experienced following surgery may be treated with painkillers.

The healing process will also include physical therapy, which is crucial. To assist you to rebuild knee muscle mass and range of motion, a physical therapist will collaborate with you. The practice of stretching, bolstering, and range-of-motion exercises are all possible forms of exercise.

To get the best results from the operation, it's critical to carefully adhere to the physical therapist's advice. For the knee to recover properly, you must also relax and refrain from physically demanding activities for a few weeks following surgery.

To track the course of recovery and assess the success of the procedure, follow-up consultations will be set up with the surgeon.

🔳Risks and Benefits

What are the potential benefits of lateral release surgery?

The potential benefits of lateral release surgery include:

• Reduced pain: By releasing the strain on the patella and the structures that surround it, lateral release surgery can treat knee pain.

• Improved knee function: The stiff lateral retinaculum can be released, allowing the patella to move more freely, and enhancing the knee's functionality and range of motion.

• Faster recovery: The healing period after lateral release surgery is shorter than that from more thorough, knee procedures.

• Reduced risk of further injury: By addressing the root cause, lateral release surgery can prevent the knee joint from suffering additional harm.

• Improved quality of life: Your entire quality of life can be enhanced with lateral release surgery by reducing pain and enhancing knee function.

What are the potential risks and complications of lateral release surgery?

Lateral release surgery is generally considered safe and has a low risk of complications. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications to be aware of.

One of the most common complications of lateral release surgery is over-correction, which can lead to instability and a dislocated patella. Additionally, there is a risk of nerve damage, which can cause numbness, tingling, or weakness in the leg. Infection and bleeding are also possible risks, although these are relatively rare.

There is also a risk of ongoing pain or recurrence of symptoms after surgery. In some cases, lateral release surgery may not be effective in relieving pain or improving knee function.

How to Reduce the Risks?

There are several steps that can be taken to reduce the risks associated with lateral release surgery:

• Select an experienced and skilled surgeon: The risk of problems can be considerably decreased by selecting a surgeon with an established record of being successful in carrying out lateral release surgery. Contact Surgeon Researcher and listen to the experts.

• Follow pre-operative instructions: Any pre-operative instructions given by the surgeon or medical staff, such as fasting or stopping a certain medication, must be followed.

• Communicate with the medical team: Any medical issues, allergies, or drugs that could affect the surgery should be disclosed to the medical staff.

• Follow post-operative instructions: It's crucial to adhere to any post-operative guidelines given by the medical staff, such as those on drug regimens, physical therapy, and appointments for follow-up.

• Gradual return to activity: To prevent re-injury and lower the risk of problems, gradually resume physical activity and sports as advised by the surgeon or physical therapist.

• Manage pain and inflammation: Utilize the prescribed medication to treat pain and inflammation and maintain a healthy diet and way of life to promote healing.

• Attend follow-up appointments: Maintain periodic check-ups with the medical staff to track your recovery's progress and catch any potential issues early.

🔳 Recovery

What is the recovery process like after lateral release surgery?

Depending on the patient and the complexity of the surgery, the recovery period following lateral release surgery may differ. Typically, you can anticipate using crutches and a knee brace for a while after surgery to promote recovery and prevent future injury.

Physical therapy is frequently given to patients to assist regain range of movement, strengthen the muscles around the knee, and lessen discomfort and swelling. Physical therapy duration and intensity will vary depending on you and your development.

You should carefully obey your doctor's post-operative recommendations, which may include rest, ice, and refraining from movements or activities. Additionally, painkillers may be provided to treat discomfort while you are recovering.

Within a few months of surgery, most patients can resume regular routines, including sports and exercise. For the knee to completely heal as well as for you to restore your entire mobility and strength of motion, it could take up to a year.

What do we look for in a surgeon that performs Lateral Release Surgery?

1. Our Surgical Sources must be comfortable sending their family members to the surgeon.
2. The surgeon must specialize in lateral release surgery and be a high-volume surgeon.
3. The surgeon must be board-certified and have a good track record of successful surgeries.
4. The surgeon must be performing lateral releases weekly.
5. The surgeon must use the latest technology and equipment.
6. The surgeon must have good hand-eye coordination.

Surgeon Researcher - Final Words

The best predictor of successful surgery is the skill level of your surgeon. Surgeons are NOT created equal.

Studies, and our experience, show that patients who are operated on by the most skilled surgeons have lower rates of revision surgery, complications, infection, pain, opioid use, and death. The most skilled surgeons achieve the best surgical outcomes - providing you with the quickest recovery and best quality of life.

Finding the most skilled surgeon can be an impossible task if you do not work in the medical industry. Surgeon Researcher is here to change that.

The only sources that know how skilled a surgeon really is are in the operating room with surgeons on a consistent basis.

We talk to these sources.

We are the only service dedicated to finding patients like you the most qualified surgeons in the country by going straight to the source. Our goal is to equip you with all the information you need to make an informed choice about your health care.

Here at Surgeon Researcher, we prioritize the needs of our customers. We are advocates for the patients, not surgeons.

Don't risk your future quality of life. Get in touch with Surgeon Researcher so we can ensure a qualified surgeon is performing your surgery. You can rely on us to be your advocate in the fight for better surgical outcomes.