Knee Replacement with 3D Printing
Injuries don’t keep office hours. When its urgent, get diagnosed and recover fast when you go straight to the orthopedic experts with Ortho After Hours.
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.
The Lowcountry’s Only Outpatient Surgery Center Same Day Robotic Knee Replacement
3D printing technology is now widely used in the medical field to create customized implants, including titanium jaws, hearing aids, limbs, organs, and knee replacements. Dr. Eric Stem uses this technology to achieve:
- Better Fit: Customized to your specific anatomy.
- Enhanced Mobility: Designed to restore natural knee motion.
- Reduced Pain: Accurate fitting reduces discomfort and improves recovery.
How 3D Printed Knee Replacements Work
Getting Your CT Scan
The process begins with a CT scan, a diagnostic tool that helps your knee surgeon develop a precise treatment plan and create a digital 3D model of your knee.
3D Printing Your Knee Implant
Once the design is finalized, a 3D printer uses computer-guided lasers to deposit layers of metal powder, such as titanium or cobalt chromium alloy, to create a highly accurate and precise implant. This process can take anywhere from a few hours to up to two days, depending on the complexity of the implant design.
Surgery Day
On the day of your surgery, Dr. Stem will use these custom instruments to ensure that your knee replacement fits perfectly and is positioned correctly. The procedure involves removing damaged bone and cartilage before replacing it with the personalized implant.
What to Expect After Knee Replacement Surgery
- Immediate Post-Surgery: You will be monitored closely, and pain management protocols will be in place.
- Rehabilitation: Physical therapy will begin to regain strength and mobility.
- Long-Term Recovery: Regular follow-ups to monitor the implant and overall progress.
Ready to regain your mobility with a personalized knee replacement? Contact Lowcountry Orthopaedics for an appointment with Eric Stem, MD, board certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip and knee today to schedule a consultation.
Lowcountry Orthopaedics’ Surgeons
Richard Zimlich, MD
Hip & Knee Specialist
Eric Stem, MD
Hip & Knee Specialist
Neal Huang, MD
Hip & Knee Specialist