Professional Treatment for Periprosthetic Fracture in Louisville, KY
When a bone breaks near an existing joint replacement, the condition is known as a periprosthetic fracture. These injuries can be complex and often require specialized orthopedic expertise to restore stability and function. At Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic, Dr. Travis D. Parkulo, MD provides advanced care for patients in the Louisville, Kentucky, area with fractures that occur around artificial joints, particularly hips and knees. His training in hip and knee replacement surgery, combined with his background in orthopedic trauma, makes him uniquely qualified to perform periprosthetic fracture repair.
What Is a Periprosthetic Fracture?
A periprosthetic fracture occurs when a bone breaks adjacent to an implanted device, such as a hip or knee replacement. These fractures are more common among older adults, but they can also affect younger patients who have undergone joint replacement.
Common scenarios include:
- A fracture around hip replacement following a fall or sudden impact
- Fractures around knee replacements due to weakened bone or trauma
- Breaks that compromise both the bone and stability of the implant
Because these injuries involve both the natural bone and the prosthetic device, treatment is more complex than standard fracture care.
Signs and Risks of Periprosthetic Fractures
Patients may experience:
- Sudden pain near the joint replacement
- Inability to bear weight or move the affected limb
- Swelling, bruising, or deformity
- A noticeable change in the stability of the artificial joint
Risk factors include osteoporosis, weakened bone around the implant, and high-impact falls.
Treatment Options for Periprosthetic Fractures
Effective management requires a careful evaluation of both the bone and the stability of the implant. Treatment may involve:
- Periprosthetic fracture repair with surgical fixation, using plates, screws, or rods to stabilize the bone
- Revision surgery for periprosthetic fracture, replacing or reinforcing the implant if it has been loosened or damaged
- Bone grafting or specialized techniques to restore bone strength around the implant
Non-surgical care is rarely an option, as these fractures typically require stabilization to ensure proper healing and joint function.
Orthopedic Trauma After Joint Replacement
A fracture around hip replacement or knee replacement is considered a form of orthopedic trauma after joint replacement. These injuries not only disrupt the bone but can compromise the success of the implant. Dr. Parkulo specializes in combining trauma care techniques with advanced joint replacement methods, ensuring patients receive the highest level of treatment.
The Healing Process
Recovery after periprosthetic fracture treatment involves several steps:
- Initial stabilization and surgical repair or revision
- Pain management and careful monitoring of healing progress
- Physical therapy to restore strength, flexibility, and balance
- Long-term strategies to protect joint replacements and reduce fall risk
Every patient’s treatment plan is personalized, ensuring the best possible outcomes.
About Dr. Travis D. Parkulo, MD
Dr. Parkulo is a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic. He specializes in hip and knee replacements, revision joint surgery, and orthopedic trauma. With extensive training in complex procedures, he is highly experienced in treating periprosthetic fractures and restoring mobility to patients facing these challenging injuries.
Patients appreciate Dr. Parkulo’s compassionate approach, clear communication, and dedication to individualized care. His goal is not only to repair fractures but to help patients regain confidence and independence in their daily lives.
Why Choose Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic?
At Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic, patients benefit from:
- Advanced imaging and surgical technology
- Experienced specialists in both joint replacement and trauma care
- Comprehensive rehabilitation and recovery programs
- A patient-first approach focused on long-term outcomes
Get Expert Periprosthetic Fracture Treatment Today
If you or a loved one has suffered a fracture around hip replacement or another joint replacement, don’t wait to seek specialized care. Dr. Travis D. Parkulo and the team at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic provide expert periprosthetic fracture repair and revision surgery tailored to your needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward recovery.