Pasquale Petrera,
M.D., Total Joint Replacement
“We are starting to see younger and younger
patients come to us for knee and hip replacement
because of sports injuries. We cannot replace a
worn joint with an 18 year old’s knee, but
we can take away a significant amount of pain and
increase their mobility.”
Fellowship trained in reconstruction of the hip
and knee and a specialist in osteoarthritis, Dr.
Pasquale Petrera is Directory of the Joint Replacement
Center at Peninsula Regional Medical Center. Ranked
#1 in the state of Maryland by Healthgrades for
joint replacement surgery, Peninsula Regional
is home to Dr. Petrera and a team of accomplished
orthopaedic surgeons focusing on correcting degenerative
conditions of the hip and knee. “Total joint
replacement and partial joint revision of either
the hip or knee can now be classified as minimally
invasive surgery. In many cases we can repair
and replace a joint using a short incision.”
Because of the less invasive nature of these procedures,
general anesthesia is avoided and regional blocks
are utilized reducing recovery time and enabling
patients to regain post operative mobility sooner.
Patients are frequently upstairs on the Joint
Replacement Unit enjoying lunch with family after
their 8:00 a.m. surgery.
In addition to refined surgical techniques, Dr.
Petrera explains implant technology and materials
have both improved. “Current implants may
eliminate the wear and tear associated with the
first generation of implants. Metal, ceramic and
future diamond materials may create better bearing
surfaces. Now younger, active patients with total
hip or knee replacements don’t have to worry
as much about their total joint wearing out.”
In spite of advances in the specialty, Dr. Petrera
says there are some lingering myths to dispel.
“Patients are often under the impression
that we completely cut out their hip or knee.
We don’t. We cut off diseased cartilage
and replace it or ‘re-tread the tire,’
so to speak. The knee cap is not completely replaced
either. As much of the patient’s bone as
possible is saved, cleaned up and implants are
positioned that provide new bearing surfaces.”
Dr. Petrera’s goal is to have every patient
leave feeling they have gotten value out of the
visit. “This is elective surgery and customer
satisfaction must be Job One. Patient focus is
more important than ever, People are more than
just a procedure to me—I enjoy getting to
know them. My greatest satisfaction comes from
hearing the patient’s story.”
When should you consider seeing Dr. Petrera? “Come
see me when you are hurt or injured. Let us help
get you back to life.”
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