Lakewood Ranch Medical Center Health News
Lakewood Ranch Medical Center Health News

New Lease on Life With A New Knee

Photo of a couple bikingLike many seniors, arthritis was slowing Jane Christy down. It was becoming difficult for her to stand for long periods while working as a school crossing guard, or do the physical activities she'd enjoyed her entire life.

"I had many different treatments, but they didn't help anymore," Christy says. "The only thing that could get me back to normal was replacing my knee."

Christy, 74, became one of the first patients treated at the new Orthopaedic Center at LWRMC.

Gender Knee Matches Anatomy

"We made small incisions and used quadriceps-sparing techniques to minimize damage to her tissues and muscles. Then, we removed her damaged joint and replaced it with an artificial gender knee," says Daniel Lamar Jr., MD, an orthopaedic surgeon at LWRMC. "The gender knee was a good option because it more closely matched her original anatomy."

"I couldn't have asked for better care," Christy says. "Everyone was wonderful. I've been a little sore, but I feel good. I can't wait to get back to swimming, biking, walking or gardening. I just want to be able to do whatever I want."

Comfort and Care in One Unit

The Unit offers consistent care for patients who have orthopaedic conditions or who undergo orthopaedic procedures.

"Patients receive personalized care from experienced surgeons, nurses, physical and occupational therapists, and multi-skilled technicians who specialize in orthopaedic care," says Karen Gancitano, RN, Director of Medical/Surgical Services.

"We use advanced technology, devices and techniques," says Randall Morgan Jr., MD, MBA, an orthopaedic surgeon. "For example, we have a computer-based navigation system to align a variety of innovative, more natural artificial joints. And we make small incisions so patients have less scarring and faster recoveries."

The unit has 10 comfortable, private rooms and can expand to 41 beds.

"We're expecting a tremendous increase in the need for orthopaedic services as more baby boomers -- who are growing older -- move to our area," says Christopher Sforzo, MD, an orthopaedic surgeon. "It's a huge bonus for the community that there's already a dedicated orthopaedic unit here to meet residents' current and future needs."

Bone Up on Our Services

Learn more about our orthopaedic options online at www.lakewoodranchmedicalcenter.com.

Daniel Lamar Jr., MD
Daniel Lamar Jr., MD
Orthopaedic Surgeon
Please call Direct DoctorsSM Plus at 1-800-454-8215
Randall Morgan Jr., MD
Randall Morgan Jr., MD
Orthopaedic Surgeon
Please call Direct DoctorsSM Plus at 1-800-454-8215
Christopher Sforzo, MD
Christopher Sforzo, MD
Orthopaedic Surgeon
Please call Direct DoctorsSM Plus at 1-800-454-8215
Karen Gancitano, RN
Karen Gancitano, RN
Director of Medical/Surgical Services