SubV Knee Replacement
(Subvastus Approach)
The SubV Knee Replacement (subvastus approach to total knee replacement) is a minimally invasive surgical technique to treat persistent and or severe knee pain and joint damage.
Not every patient is a candidate for the SubV Knee. Your eligibility depends on several factors, including your overall health, age, prior knee surgeries, and the specific condition of your knee.
Patients who have already undergone a knee replacement or who have certain medical conditions may not be candidates for this procedure.
During your consultation, an OrthoVirginia orthopedic surgeon will carefully evaluate your knee, review your medical history, and discuss your treatment options to determine whether the SubV Knee approach is the right option for you.
Who May Be a Candidate for a SubV Knee Replacement?
A SubV Knee replacement may be recommended for patients with:
- Knee arthritis
- Knee injury or joint damage
- Persistent knee pain that has not improved with conservative treatments such as medication, physical therapy, or lifestyle changes
Understanding the SubV Knee Technique
With the SubV Knee approach, the surgeon makes a curved incision toward the inside of the knee and moves aside the vastus medialis muscle.
Recovery After a SubV Knee Replacement
SubV Knee replacement is commonly performed at an outpatient surgery center. Many patients are:
- Walking with a few hours after surgery
- Able to go home the same as their surgery
Before discharge, patients must successfully complete a physical therapy evaluation. Some individuals with additional health considerations may need to stay overnight in the hospital. Your surgeon will discuss your expected recovery timeline with you prior to surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
The SubV Knee uses the subvastus approach, meaning the surgeon works underneath the vastus medialis muscle.
Many patients can go home the same day as surgery. Most are able to walk with a walker and climb stairs within a few hours after the procedure, once they pass a physical therapy evaluation.
Yes. Physical therapy is an important part of recovery. Your surgeon’s office will help coordinate physical therapy, which may include guided sessions in office and exercises to perform at home.
OrthoVirginia Surgeons Who Perform SubV Knee Replacements
OrthoVirginia has experienced orthopedic surgeons trained in the subvastus “SubV Knee” technique.
If knee pain limits your mobility or quality of life, schedule a consultation with an OrthoVirginia orthopedic surgeon to learn whether a SubV Knee replacement may be an option for you.
