Key Takeaways
- Total knee replacement surgery is a safe and effective procedure that relieves chronic knee pain and restores mobility for patients with arthritis or joint damage.
- Understanding what to expect at every stage, from consultation to recovery, helps reduce stress and improve your outcome.
- Pre-surgical preparation, personalized surgical care, and guided physical therapy all play essential roles in recovery.
- Modern advancements like Enovis EMPOWR 3D Knee® technology and ARVIS® augmented reality navigation ensure precision and long-lasting results.
- Torrez Orthopedics & OrthoExpress offers expert total knee replacement surgery in Cedar Valley, led by Dr. Benjamin Torrez, board-certified orthopedic surgeon. Schedule your appointment today.
Before Total Knee Replacement: Preparing for Surgery
Preparing for total knee replacement begins with a comprehensive consultation with Dr. Benjamin Torrez, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in total joint replacement. During this visit, your symptoms, medical history, and imaging results are reviewed to determine whether surgery is the best option.
Your Initial Consultation
You’ll discuss:
- How knee pain affects your daily life.
- What conservative treatments have you tried (such as physical therapy, injections, or medications)?
- Whether total knee replacement will help you regain comfort and function.
Patients who have not found lasting relief from non-surgical methods, like bracing, therapy, or medications, are often excellent candidates for this life-changing procedure.
Pre-Surgical Planning
At Torrez Orthopedics, pre-surgical planning includes a focus on pain management, mobility, and safety. One of the most innovative steps Dr. Torrez offers is the Iovera° pre-procedure protocol. This localized pain management treatment significantly reduces post-operative discomfort and minimizes the need for narcotics.
You’ll also receive:
- Detailed instructions about medications and fasting.
- Pre-operative exercises to strengthen your muscles before surgery.
- Guidance on what to bring and how to prepare your home for recovery.
During Total Knee Replacement Surgery
The surgery itself, called knee arthroplasty, involves removing damaged cartilage and bone from the knee joint and replacing them with durable, custom-fit prosthetic components.
At Torrez Orthopedics, Dr. Torrez uses the Enovis EMPOWR 3D Knee® System, a dual-pivot implant designed to replicate the knee’s natural motion. This advanced design improves stability, comfort, and long-term performance.
| Phase | What Happens | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Incision & Access | The surgeon makes a small, precise incision over the knee joint. | Minimizes tissue disruption. |
| Removal of Damaged Tissue | Worn-out cartilage and bone are removed. | Prepares the knee for a smooth, pain-free surface. |
| Implant Placement | The EMPOWR 3D Knee® prosthesis is positioned and aligned for optimal function. | Mimics natural joint motion for comfort and durability. |
| Closure & Recovery Start | The incision is closed, and initial mobility exercises begin soon after. | Promotes faster healing and reduces stiffness. |
ARVIS® Augmented Reality Technology
Dr. Torrez also integrates ARVIS® (Augmented Reality Visualization and Information System) for enhanced accuracy. This hands-free technology overlays precise surgical navigation directly into the surgeon’s field of view, eliminating bulky robotic systems while improving implant alignment and surgical outcomes.
These innovations combine to provide:
- Greater accuracy during surgery.
- Reduced time under anesthesia.
- Faster, more predictable recovery results.
After Total Knee Replacement: The Road to Recovery
Immediate Recovery
After surgery, most patients are encouraged to begin moving the knee within 24 hours. This early mobilization helps reduce stiffness, improve circulation, and accelerate healing.
Pain management continues with techniques like Iovera° therapy and carefully monitored medication. Your care team will guide you through gentle exercises to restore strength and flexibility while protecting your new joint.
Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is the key to success after total knee replacement. A personalized rehab plan focuses on:
- Regaining motion in the first few weeks.
- Building muscle strength to support your new joint.
- Improving balance and walking with assistive devices if needed.
Most patients notice significant improvements within 6–12 weeks, and full recovery, including optimal strength and comfort, can occur within 3–6 months.
Long-Term Results
With the durability of the EMPOWR 3D Knee® System, patients can expect long-lasting benefits, including:
- Dramatic pain reduction.
- Greater joint stability.
- Renewed confidence for physical activities like walking, golfing, and traveling.
Dr. Torrez’s patients consistently report a return to active, pain-free living, often exceeding their expectations for comfort and mobility.
Why Choose Torrez Orthopedics for Knee Replacement in Cedar Valley
Advanced Surgical Innovation
Dr. Torrez combines the latest orthopedic advancements, EMPOWR 3D Knee®, and ARVIS® augmented reality, to deliver accurate, customized, and lasting results.
Patient-Centered Care
From consultation to post-surgical rehabilitation, Torrez Orthopedics & OrthoExpress focuses on clear communication, comfort, and long-term success.
Local Expertise You Can Trust
Dr. Benjamin Torrez, a Cedar Valley native and board-certified orthopedic surgeon, is deeply committed to his patients and community. His reputation for excellence and compassion makes Torrez Orthopedics a trusted name in knee and joint care across Cedar Falls, Waterloo, Independence, and Waverly.
Reclaim Your Mobility with Expert Knee Care
Living with chronic knee pain doesn’t have to be your reality. At Torrez Orthopedics & OrthoExpress, you can count on advanced technology and compassionate expertise to restore comfort and function. Whether you’re in Cedar Falls, Waterloo, Waverly, or Independence, Dr. Benjamin Torrez is ready to help you move freely again.
Schedule your total knee replacement consultation with Torrez Orthopedics today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is total knee replacement surgery?
It’s a procedure that removes damaged cartilage and bone from the knee joint and replaces them with synthetic materials that mimic natural movement.
How long does recovery take after knee replacement?
Most patients regain functional mobility within 6–12 weeks, with full strengthening and balance improvements continuing over several months.
Is total knee replacement painful?
Modern pain management, including Iovera° therapy and advanced anesthesia, significantly reduces post-operative discomfort.
What are the benefits of the EMPOWR 3D Knee® implant?
It mimics the natural pivot motion of a healthy knee, providing smoother movement, greater stability, and long-term durability.
Who performs total knee replacement at Torrez Orthopedics?
All procedures are performed by Dr. Benjamin Torrez, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in total joint reconstruction and advanced knee replacement.
