Revolutionary knee surgery in Wismar: Pain-free thanks to new prostheses!

Revolutionary knee surgery in Wismar: Pain-free thanks to new prostheses!

In Wismar it's about more than just relieving pain - it creates a new attitude to life for many patients. We are of course talking about the total knee endoprosthesis, which enables access to a pain-free future at the Hanse-Klinikum Wismar. Brigitte Baaske from Gägelow also took this step. At 72, she suffered for years from severe knee pain, which initially started as just a slight pulling sensation but eventually severely limited her mobility. The worn cartilage in her right knee caused the bones to rub against each other. Medication offered no relief, and the prospect of knee surgery did not frighten her. She was determined to have the surgery and thereby regain some quality of life.

Pediatric surgeon Dr. Klaus Michel, head physician at the Clinic for Accident, Orthopedic and Pediatric Surgery, carries out around 500 such endoprosthetic operations every year. The operations usually last between 45 and 90 minutes. However, patients must first exhaust conservative treatment methods, such as physiotherapy and painkillers. X-rays play a crucial role in determining the size and shape of the appropriate implant. The latest technology enables the use of an individually adjustable knee endoprosthesis that not only fits better, but also offers optimal functionality.

The operation and its effects

During the operation, the surgeon removes the worn joint surfaces, but the kneecap remains. The prosthesis is precisely fitted into the bone and patients can begin physiotherapy exercises just a few hours after the procedure. After her first knee operation two years ago, Brigitte Baaske had to undergo another operation - the second operation took place in January this year. Thanks to the successful treatments, she can now walk pain-free again and even travel without having to rely on help. “I’m happy to be able to go to the mushrooms again,” she enthuses.

In Germany, the use of artificial knee joints is in second place in terms of frequency, after hip replacements. If severe knee problems occur in everyday life and conservative measures do not help, a knee prosthesis can be a solution. According to research, 85% of patients report a noticeable improvement after surgery, while 80% are satisfied with the prosthesis in the long term. These positive results show that many, like Ms. Baaske, can experience a significant increase in their quality of life through the operation.

Find the right clinic

Finding a suitable clinic is crucial. A list of ten knee joint replacement clinics in Germany includes hospitals that specialize in these procedures and have a high level of patient satisfaction. The score of these clinics is based on the quality of treatment and the experiences of previous patients. The Schloss Werneck Orthopedic Hospital tops the list with 93% satisfaction and 2,685 patients treated, followed by the Arcus Clinic Pforzheim and the Helios ENDO Clinic Hamburg. All of the clinics mentioned have at least an IQTiG value of 80%, which indicates a high quality of treatment.

The durability of the prosthesis is also an important consideration: it can last 15 to 20 years or longer depending on the stress on the joint. However, it often makes sense to replace it if the prosthesis is worn out or the patient's condition changes. Physiotherapy or a stay in a rehabilitation clinic are essential for the recovery process after using a prosthesis. The German Congress for Orthopedics and Trauma Surgery 2024 will also provide valuable information on finding a clinic and patient care.

You quickly notice that anyone planning a knee operation in Wismar has good prospects of a pain-free life and can hope for a smooth recovery. The Hanse-Klinikum Wismar is ready to accompany ambitious patients like Brigitte Baaske on their journey and to open up new perspectives for them.