Q. What is the difference between partial and total knee replacement?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Partial knee replacement and total knee replacement are both surgical procedures to address knee joint damage, but they differ in terms of the extent of the joint replaced. Here are the key differences:

Partial Knee Replacement (Unicompartmental Knee Replacement):

1. Scope: Only a portion of the knee joint is replaced. This procedure is suitable when arthritis or damage is confined to one compartment of the knee (either the medial or lateral compartment).

2. Preservation of Healthy Tissue: In a partial knee replacement, the surgeon aims to preserve as much of the healthy, undamaged knee tissue as possible. This includes retaining the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in some cases.

3. Smaller Incision: The surgical incision is typically smaller compared to a total knee replacement.

4. Faster Recovery: Partial knee replacement generally involves a faster recovery compared to a total knee replacement. Patients may experience less pain and regain knee function more quickly.

5. Potential for Better Range of Motion: Since only a portion of the knee is replaced, some patients may achieve a more natural range of motion compared to a total knee replacement.

Total Knee Replacement (Total Knee Arthroplasty):

1. Scope: The entire knee joint is replaced with artificial components. This includes the femoral, tibial, and patellar components.

2. Indications: Total knee replacement is performed when arthritis or damage affects multiple compartments of the knee or when the damage is extensive, involving the entire joint.

3. Full Removal of Damaged Tissue: In a total knee replacement, all damaged or arthritic tissue in the knee joint is removed and replaced with prosthetic components.

4. Larger Incision: The incision for a total knee replacement is typically larger than that for a partial knee replacement.

5. Longer Recovery: Recovery from total knee replacement may take longer compared to partial knee replacement. Physical therapy and rehabilitation are essential components of the recovery process.

The choice between partial and total knee replacement depends on various factors, including the extent of knee joint damage, the location of the damage, and the overall health of the patient. The decision is made by the orthopedic surgeon after a thorough evaluation of the individual case.

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Q. Hello Doctor, from past 3 weeks I have too much dandruff problem and it cause hair loss will you suggest any best solution for this?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Dealing with excessive dandruff leading to hair loss can be frustrating, but there are effective ways to address this issue. Here's what you can do:

1. Switch to a Gentle Shampoo: Opt for shampoos specifically designed for dandruff, containing ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, coal tar, or selenium sulfide. Use these shampoos regularly to reduce dandruff buildup.

2. Scalp Massage: Gently massage your scalp while shampooing to help remove flakes and improve blood circulation, which can promote healthier hair growth.

3. Avoid Hot Water: Wash your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot water, as hot water can dry out your scalp and worsen dandruff.

4. Balanced Diet: Ensure you're eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for healthy hair and scalp, such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and B vitamins.

5. Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate dandruff problems. Practice stress-relief techniques like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise to help manage stress levels.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: Consider using diluted apple cider vinegar as a rinse after shampooing. It can help restore the scalp's pH balance and reduce dandruff.

7. Consult a Dermatologist: If the issue persists despite trying home remedies or over-the-counter solutions, seek advice from a dermatologist. They can provide a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific scalp condition.

Remember, consistency is key when dealing with dandruff. Give these remedies some time to work, as immediate results might not always occur. It's essential to find what works best for your scalp, so don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate improvements.

Taking care of your scalp health not only addresses dandruff but also aids in reducing hair loss associated with this issue. Feel free to incorporate these tips into your routine and observe how your scalp responds. If the problem persists or worsens, seeking professional guidance is always recommended.

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