Hip & Knee Specialists

Hip & Knee Specialists

Fast forward to feeling better with Lowcountry Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine’s board-certified and fellowship-trained surgeons that specialize in joint reconstruction and hip and knee surgery.

Same Day Appointments

As premier hip and knee replacement surgeons in Charleston, SC, Dr. Zimlich and Dr. Stem alleviate patient pain and discomfort using innovative techniques and technologies. Concentrating exclusively on knee and hip replacement, the Lowcountry Orthopaedics Hip and Knee Specialists operate at the Lowcountry Orthopaedics Surgery Center and area hospitals per patient preference.

Top rated for eight years in a row as Charleston’s Choice for best orthopedic surgeons, countless of satisfied patients walk away with a pain free, natural feeling knee or hip. From custom total knee arthroplasty using 3D printing to the area’s first and only outpatient surgery center based robotic knee replacement program, patients trust Lowcountry Orthopaedics Hip and Knee Specialists.

Signature services include:

  • Custom total knee arthroplasty using 3D printing
  • Same day robotic knee replacement program
  • Personalized joint replacement experience
  • Dedicated team of nurses, physician assistants, and physical therapists
  • Proven outcomes for quick recovery and pain-free lives

Same day appointments are available at one of our convenient North Charleston, Summerville, or Daniel Island locations.

Same-Day Joint Replacement

The benefits of same-day total hip or knee replacement surgery include fast recovery, lower risk of infection, no risk of hospital-acquired illness, cost reduction, and increased patient satisfaction. Patients interested in same-day joint surgery should schedule an evaluation with Dr. Zimlich to review their medical profile for candidacy.

Hip & Knee Solutions

Total Knee Replacement
Joint replacement surgery is a safe and effective procedure to relieve pain, correct leg deformity, and help you resume normal activities.
Knee Revision
Revision total knee replacement is the replacement of a failed total knee prosthesis with a new prosthesis.
Partial Knee Replacement
Patients with osteoarthritis that is limited to just one part of the knee may be candidates for partial knee replacement.
Hip Replacement

Hip replacement surgery is a safe and effective procedure that can relieve your pain, increase motion, and help you get back to enjoying normal, everyday activities.

Partial Hip Replacement

Partial hip replacements have been performed successfully at all ages, from the young teenager with juvenile arthritis to the elderly patient with degenerative arthritis.

Hip Replacement FAQs

How do I know when I am ready to have a hip replacement?

The primary reason to have a joint replaced is pain. Patients that have pain that limits their daily activities and X-ray findings of arthritis generally are candidates for replacement surgery. Other indications for surgery include deformity and stiffness.

Will my implant set off metal detectors?

The majority of implants do set off metal detectors. Unfortunately, there is no identifying document or card that the TSA recognizes.

How do I arrange for inpatient therapy?

A counselor from the hospital will contact you prior to your surgery and review your situation to determine if you would qualify.

What if I live alone or do not have help at home?

The majority of patients go home after their hospital stay. You will require someone to be available to assist you with your daily needs for at least one week. It is important to make these arrangements with your family or friends prior to surgery. Patients who do not have assistance at home may qualify for an inpatient rehabilitation center. It is best to arrange this prior to your surgery.

Where will I have PT after surgery?

We prefer patients to attend a certified outpatient program three days a week. If a patient lacks transportation or there are no PT locations close to home, in-home therapy will be arranged three days a week. A case manager from the hospital will help you to arrange this.

Will I need a walker of cane at home?

Yes, if you do not have them already, we will supply you with a walker and cane in your pre-op visit.

When will I start PT?

Typically we will try to start PT on the day of surgery. That may involve moving from your bed to the chair with assistance, performing exercises while seated, or possibly walking with a physical therapist using a walker. You will continue to work with PT in the morning and afternoon the day after surgery. In those sessions, you will complete exercises, walk with a walker, and practice going up and down steps.

How long will I be at the hospital?

The typical stay is 1-2 nights. For example, patients having surgery on Monday would go home either Tuesday afternoon or Wednesday morning.

Will I get a card or letter to allow me through the airport?

Cards are available if requested but they are not recognized by the TSA or any other government agency.

When can I shower?

Once the incision is dry, patients can shower. You will be given specific instructions upon discharge from the hospital.

How do I know if I have an infection?

If you are concerned about an infection, you should see your surgeon. Signs of infection include drainage from the incision, redness, pain, and swelling.

Will I need a blood thinner after surgery?

Yes, a medication to protect against blood clots is necessary for up to 35 days after a Total Hip Replacement. We will give you this prescription at your pre-op visit. You will not need to fill this prescription if you are going to an inpatient rehab facility.

How do I know if I have a blood clot?

If you are concerned that you may have a blood clot, you should see your surgeon. Signs of blood clots include pain and swelling in one or both of your lower legs.

How do I avoid a blood clot?

While blood clots are a risk factor after surgery, there are things you can do to help prevent them. It is important to complete your full prescription of blood-thinning medication and to perform exercises that are shown to you in your class prior to surgery and taught to you in PT.

Do I need to attend the class before surgery?

Attending the joint replacement class allows patients to familiarize themselves with the hospital, nursing staff, and physical therapist. The class includes: reviewing the operation, scheduling therapy, and pain management. Studies have shown that patients who attend class have shorter more productive hospital stays.

How will my pain be controlled?

Pain is typically well controlled with oral and IV medications while in the hospital. Once a patient goes home after surgery, their pain will be controlled with oral medication. You will receive a prescription for pain medication after surgery at your pre-op visit.

Will I have any activity restrictions following hip replacement?

The approach your surgeon uses will determine what restrictions a patient will have. It takes several months following surgery for the muscles to heal and strengthen. You will learn more about specific restrictions in the class and in PT.

When will I be able to drive?

Most patients can return to driving in one month, however, we ask that you do not drive until we see you at your first follow-up appointment after surgery.

When will I be able to return to work?

This varies on the type of work you are returning to. Most patients can return to non-strenuous work activity in 4-6 weeks. It will take longer to return to work that requires climbing, squatting, and heavy lifting.

When will I see my doctor after I leave the hospital?

You will have a follow-up appointment scheduled 2 ½ – 3 weeks after surgery. If you have any questions during that time, please contact your doctor’s office.

Knee Replacement FAQs

How do I know when I am ready to have a knee replacement?

The primary reason to have a joint replaced is pain. Patients that have pain that limits their daily activities and X-ray findings of arthritis generally are candidates for replacement surgery. Other indications for surgery include deformity and stiffness.

When will I start PT?

Typically we will try to start PT the day of surgery. That may involve moving from your bed to the chair with assistance, performing exercises while seated, or possibly walking with a physical therapist using a walker. You will continue to work with PT in the morning and afternoon the day after surgery. In those sessions, you will complete exercises, walk with a walker, and practice going up and down steps.

How long will a knee replacement last?

Artificial knees are mechanical parts that have a limited lifetime. The lifetime of an artificial knee is dependent on the amount of force placed across the joint as well as the activity level. Highly active patients tend to have higher wear rates. It is recommended that patients avoid engaging in high-impact activities. These activities include running and jumping. Studies show some implants have lasted beyond 15 years.

Will my implant set off metal detectors?

The majority of implants do set off metal detectors. Unfortunately, there is no identifying document or card that the TSA recognizes.

Will I get a card or letter to allow me through the airport?

Cards are available if requested but they are not recognized by the TSA or any other government agency.

Does a partial knee replacement last longer than a total knee replacement?

Not necessarily. All implants have a limited life expectancy depending on an individual’s age, weight, and activity level.

Can I have a total knee replacement after a partial knee?

Yes. The conversion of a partial knee replacement to a total knee replacement is very similar to a first-time knee replacement.

Why would I have a partial knee replacement?

A partial knee is typically used for patients who have osteoarthritis in limited parts of their knee. Studies suggest partial knee replacements may give the individual a more natural feel to their knee.

Will I need a walker of cane at home?

Yes, if you do not have them already, we will supply you with a walker and cane in your pre-op visit.

How much motion should I have after a knee replacement?

The biggest predictor of motion after the replacement is the amount of motion a patient has prior to surgery. If you have limited motion, your doctor may prescribe outpatient PT or home exercises prior to surgery to try to improve your range of motion. We strive to have every knee bend at least 90 degrees. In knees that are stiff and lack significant bend prior to surgery, achieving full motion can be a challenge. Most often this is due to the stiffness of the ligaments and tendons which can be improved to some degree with surgical releases. Participation in a comprehensive PT plan following surgery is essential in order to maximize motion.

What if I live alone or do not have help at home?

The majority of patients go home after their hospital stay. You will require someone to be available to assist you with your daily needs for at least one week. It is important to make these arrangements with your family or friends prior to surgery. Patients who do not have assistance at home may qualify for an inpatient rehabilitation center. It is best to arrange this prior to your surgery.

How do I arrange for inpatient therapy?

A counselor from the hospital will contact you prior to your surgery and review your situation to determine if you would qualify.

How long will I be at the hospital?

The typical stay is 1-2 nights. For example, Patients having surgery on Monday would go home either Tuesday afternoon or Wednesday morning.

When can I shower?

Once the incision is dry, patients can shower. You will be given specific instructions upon discharge from the hospital.

Is it normal for my knee to feel warm after surgery?

Isolated warmth of the skin after knee replacement is not unusual and can persist for up to six months. This is thought to be due to increased blood flow during the healing process.

How do I know if I have an infection?

If you are concerned about an infection, you should see your surgeon. Signs of infection include drainage from the incision, redness, pain, and swelling.

Will I need a blood thinner after surgery?

Yes, a medication to protect against blood clots is necessary for up to 35 days after a Total Hip Replacement. We will give you this prescription at your pre-op visit. You will not need to fill this prescription if you are going to an inpatient rehab facility.

How do I avoid a blood clot?

While blood clots are a risk factor after surgery, there are things you can do to help prevent them. It is important to complete your full prescription of blood-thinning medication and to perform exercises that are shown to you in your class prior to surgery and taught to you in PT.

Do I need to attend the class before surgery?

Attending the joint replacement class allows patients to familiarize themselves with the hospital, nursing staff, and physical therapist. The class includes: reviewing the operation, scheduling therapy, and pain management. Studies have shown that patients who attend class have shorter more productive hospital stays.

How do I know if I have a blood clot?

If you are concerned that you may have a blood clot, you should see your surgeon. Signs of blood clots include pain and swelling in one or both of your lower legs.

How will my pain be controlled?

Pain is typically well controlled with oral and IV medications while in the hospital. Once a patient goes home after surgery, their pain will be controlled with oral medication. You will receive a prescription for pain medication after surgery at your pre-op visit.

When will I be able to drive?

Most patients can return to driving in one month, however, we ask that you do not drive until we see you at your first follow-up appointment after surgery.

When will I be able to return to work?

This varies on the type of work you are returning to. Most patients can return to non-strenuous work activity in 4-6 weeks. It will take longer to return to work that requires climbing, squatting, and heavy lifting.

When will I see my doctor after I leave the hospital?

You will have a follow-up appointment scheduled 2 ½ – 3 weeks after surgery. If you have any questions during that time, please contact your doctor’s office.

Lowcountry Orthopaedics’
Hip & Knee Team

Hip and Knee Videos

Call Now Button