Dr. Kim begins by talking about the challenges of repairing damaged cartilage. Unlike bones and tendons, cartilage does not heal. Now, with experimentation with stem cells, researchers are excited they may be close to the ability to re-grow cartilage and, after injury, prevent cartilage cells from dying. He goes on to talk about the excitement in this field of research. To quote Dr. Kim, “I think it’s time for optimism, and I think that there are a lot of new technologies coming online and that stem cells certainly open up an approach that we just simply didn’t have. I think before we were somewhat limited by the types of cells we could use for cartilage repair, and the ability to manipulate these adult stem cells is very exciting. When combined with other technologies that are being developed it looks like we’re much closer to a good long-lasting solution than we were at any time previously.”

Dr. Seth Leopold, Professor and Chief of Orthopaedics at the University of Washington Medical Center (UWMC), discusses minimally-invasive, or quadriceps sparing total knee replacement surgery. Assistant Professor in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, Dr. Jason Weisstein, speaks about total hip resurfacing arthroplasty. He explains why this newer surgery may be a particularly attractive option for younger, more active patients. And lastly, Dr. Winston Warme, Chief of the Shoulder and Elbow Service at the UWMC, discusses a surgery innovated at the UWMC, non-prosthetic glenoid arthroplasty, more commonly referred to by patients as the ‘Ream and Run’ procedure. Learn how this alternative to conventional total shoulder replacement surgery is allowing patients to resume greater levels of the activities, as well as allowing for revision surgeries later in life if needed.

Patient Bob Sandoz, a 61-year-old, commercial real estate agent from Cameno Island, WA, had been hindered by a shoulder injury he suffered while body suffering in Maui several years earlier for several years, but eventually the pain became too much of a limiting factor in the physical activities Bob loved. Bob went doctor-to-doctor searching for a procedure that would allow him to continue participating in his favorite activities while diminishing the pain. It wasn’t until he met Dr. Winston Warme and heard about the ‘ream and run’ procedure that he was able to find the solution he was searching for. It was only through persistence and personal advocacy that Bob found the procedure that worked for him. If you or a loved one is considering joint-replacement surgery, don’t miss the opportunity to hear three leading medical experts explain advances in the field of orthopaedics, along with what may be the best option for you.

Dr. Ma begins by explaining what arthroscopic surgery is and what types of injuries this surgery is appropriate for. He discusses the differences between arthroscopic surgery and traditional surgery and what the benefits are of a more advanced surgical technique, including decreased recovery time. Dr. Ma speaks unequivocally about the multidisciplinary team in place at UCSF that makes for the most positive patient experience. If you are searching for information on surgery for joint pain, this program can provides an in-depth look at a state-of-the-art technique.

Dr. Kvidera goes into detail about prosthetics and the procedure for both knee and hip replacement and new advances in hip replacement surgery and revision surgery for failed joint replacement. Learn about how to find a physician when seeking treatment and what to expect before and after surgery. He also answers questions from the Patient Power audience and gives insights into the evolving technologies to help us further understand the future of joint replacement surgery.

You’ll also hear from Dr. Kvidera’s patient, Dave, who had knee replacement surgery a short time ago. Dave talks about his decision to have surgery, what the procedure was like and how his recovery is going. If you’re looking for insight on joint replacement surgery, this program provides a tremendous amount of information on this topic.

Dr. Neligan explains what he can do with plastic surgery for various patients, and how it works. He talks about what is possible for breast and bilateral breast reconstruction, when reconstruction is possible, and whether it’s possible to save the nipple in breast cancer patients. He then goes on to discuss reconstruction of the jaw and face, describing some new and incredible techniques now available. He talks about facial reanimation surgery for paralysis patients, including those born with defects like Bell’s palsy and Moebius syndrome. Dr. Neligan addresses the recovery process and typical results for both jaw and facial surgery. Finally, Dr. Neligan talks about craniofacial surgery and revision surgery for those who have undergone previous reconstructions.

If you suffer from breast cancer, throat cancer, sarcoma, facial paralysis or another deformity, you might have many surgical options available to you. Listen now to hear a discussion on what is possible for breast, face and jaw surgery.

Dr. Carroll addresses the different types of treatment for these injuries, including splints, activity modification and using heat and cold to treat the injury. Surgical approaches are an option, but Dr. Carroll explains why physicians often use that as a last resort. Rather than operate, doctors may prescribe anti-inflammatories or other medications to treat the pain associated with repetitive use.

Dr. Carroll also talks about the importance of seeking a specialist and finding one that can best treat you, whether the damage is to your hand, shoulder or other areas. He explains the value in using a team approach to treating repetitive use syndromes, which may be found in programs available at Northwestern Memorial, where doctors, surgeons, nurses and physical therapists work together to provide the best quality of care. Lastly, Dr. Carroll stresses the need to be aware of ways to prevent these types of injuries. Preventative measures include proper ergonomics, maintaining sufficient physical activity and stretching, as well as weight training. This program is sure to provide you with beneficial information about repetitive use syndromes.

Dr. Robinson discusses his research and clinical knowledge of knee replacement surgery. As a physician who recommends conservative treatments when possible, he offers a unique expert opinion on when joint replacement is a good idea. He explains what hip resurfacing means, and how it differs from traditional hip replacement. Dr. Robinson takes questions from patients who have had knee replacement surgery and those who have just started to experience knee pain. He addresses questions about side effects following surgery, meniscus injury, kneecap replacement and knee replacement failure. He talks about what to realistically expect after both total and partial knee replacement surgery, and how soft tissue damage and arthritis can play a role in recovery results.

Listen now to hear a conversation that includes technical explanations of knee replacement surgery, as well as general advice for those considering some type of knee replacement. Get an expert opinion on what you should know, what questions to ask your doctor, and what your expectations should be.

Begin to understand where joint replacement surgery comes in play if you are affected by arthritis. What should you consider? Who type of physician should you see? What are the questions to ask? Can joint replacement surgery improve your quality of life and get you moving again? During the program, Dr. Leopold stresses the importance of understanding what ?minimally-invasive? means in the context of joint replacement surgery. He details the difference in the minimally-invasive technique and traditional technique when doing a knee replacement surgery, as well as the ideal patient for these surgeries.

Brian from Olympia, Washington, also joins the program to share why he elected to have knee replacement surgery. He explains to listeners what he considered in making his decision and what has been the result of the surgery. Dr. Leopold answers several listener questions, covering topics that include: How to minimize damage to joints for those who suffer from arthritis; Alternative medicine treatment options; Removal of plates and screws in bones; And appropriate physical activities for those with arthritis. If you or someone you know suffers from arthritis and is considering joint replacement surgery, this Patient Power program is an ideal place to begin.