Knee
The knee is a hinge-like joint that allows human bipedal walking. Three structures contribute to this function: bone, cartilage and ligament. The knee has three compartments, the inboard or medial compartment, the outboard or lateral compartment, and the compartment under the kneecap, called the patellofemoral compartment. All three are lined by a thin layer of articular cartilage that lets the knee move without friction. The knee is stabilised by important ligaments: the ACL (anterior cruciate ligament), the PCL (posterior cruciate ligament), the MCL (medial collateral ligament), the LCL (lateral collateral ligament) and the PLC (posterolateral corner). Two pieces of fibrocartilage called the meniscus, medial and lateral, help absorb shock and lubricate the joint. Several tendons cross the knee, including the quadriceps and patellar tendons. An injury to any one of these systems can lead to knee pain and loss of function.
Where does it hurt?
Pick the line closest to what you are feeling. It will take you to the condition behind it.
Conditions and procedures
Grouped by what they treat rather than listed alphabetically.
Meniscus and cartilage
Joint replacement
Non-surgical and regenerative
Video
Procedures and patient recoveries, shown rather than described.
Back to work in six weeks after robotic assisted total knee replacement
Robotic knee replacement offers the advantage of minimising surgical trauma. The implant is positioned to a precision of less than 1mm on a computer screen before a single incision is made. Once Dr. Seneviratne is satisfied with the implant position, the robot makes precise cuts in the bone, allowing implantation with less surgical trauma, a faster recovery and an earlier return to daily activity and work. Note that this is anecdotal; research studies are ongoing to define the merits of robotic assisted knee surgery.
Left partial knee replacement for single compartment osteoarthritis
Robotic assisted partial knee replacement offers a rapid recovery with an early return to function.
Recovery documents
The protocols and instructions that apply to knee procedures. All are also in the Recovery section.
After your operation — password required, given to you by your surgical team.
Rehab protocols
Common questions
Do I need a referral to see Dr. Seneviratne?
Most insurance plans do not require a referral, but some HMO plans do. Check with your plan before booking, or call the office and we will check for you.
Will I need surgery?
Most patients seen in this practice do not have surgery. The first visit is a diagnosis, not a decision. Where a non-surgical route is reasonable it is tried first.
Can Dr. Seneviratne review my MRI if I live outside New York?
Yes. The remote case review service covers exactly this. Imaging and history are reviewed and a call is usually arranged within 48 hours.
Not sure whether you need surgery?
If you already have imaging and a recommendation from another surgeon, a remote case review gives you a second read on it, usually within 48 hours.