Will I Need a Kneecap Replacement After My Bronx Car Accident?

The possibility of surgery can be highly unnerving after a car accident in the Bronx. However, the thought of a kneecap implant can be particularly troubling. There is something about having a foreign object installed in your body that is difficult to process for even the toughest car accident survivors. Will you actually need a kneecap implant after your crash? How will you pay for this type of surgery?

When Does a Knee Injury Lead to Kneecap Replacement Surgery?

First, you should know that you have medical autonomy as a patient. You are free to reject knee replacement surgery if you do not feel comfortable with this type of procedure or if you think it is unnecessary. That being said, you should also listen carefully to the recommendations of your doctors.

For some patients, kneecap replacement surgery is a welcome source of relief. Those who struggle with ongoing pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion may feel that kneecap replacement surgery is the most viable option. Many patients, including car accident victims, experience excruciating knee pain even months after their accidents. It may not make sense to simply increase the dose of pain medication, since this does not address the root of the issue.

Patients Often Wait Till Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) Before Deciding

Both doctors and patients often agree to wait until maximum medical improvement (MMI) before deciding whether to proceed with kneecap replacement surgery. In other words, they wait to see if the knee will heal on its own before considering surgical intervention. Sometimes, the pain and stiffness subsides to a level that is acceptable for the patient. In this situation, kneecap replacement surgery may not be necessary.

Kneecap Surgery Is Sometimes Unavoidable

Kneecap surgery is sometimes unavoidable. For example, a sufficient impact during a car accident can completely shatter the kneecap. If the bone has literally disintegrated, it may be beyond saving. In this situation, it makes sense to replace the kneecap with an implant. These types of kneecap injuries often occur after impacts with ignition components below the steering wheel, particularly on older-model vehicles.

Some patients may also be more suitable for kneecap replacement surgery due to their advanced age or bone conditions. For example, an elderly individual with osteoporosis may be more likely to shatter their kneecap during a car accident, and this may heighten the need for a kneecap implant.

Can a Bronx Car Accident Attorney Help Me?

Only a doctor can determine whether you need kneecap replacement surgery. That being said, an experienced auto accident attorney in the Bronx may be able to help you access the necessary compensation to pay for appropriate medical treatment, whatever that treatment may be. Consider continuing this conversation with Cohan Law, PLLC today.

Source: 

hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/knee-replacement-surgery-procedure