Longview Ortho Embraces Emerging Trends in Orthopedic Care

Dr. Tony Lin

While new technology is important in the orthopedic field, many clinics - including Longview Orthopedic Associates - are also focusing on improving care for joint replacement patients. Dr. Tony Lin of LOA discussed changes that have recently been put in place and others that may be on the way.

Preparation means optimization - Fully preparing patients for what they can expect from surgery is a key point of emphasis at LOA. “In addition to ensuring that people are in the best possible physical condition prior to surgery,” Lin said, “pre-op therapy and weekly joint classes are scheduled with our clinic's total joint nurse practitioner.”

Pain management readiness - Efforts are made to minimize post-operative pain while relying less on opioids due to their side effects. Again, LOA staff members discuss pain management with patients in advance of surgery.

Use of nerve blocks - “Nerve blocks allow us to use less anesthesia, resulting in less nausea and drowsiness after surgery,” Lin said. Nerve blocks last for 24 hours and limit pain without limiting mobility. For this reason, patients can often walk and begin physical therapy on the same day they have surgery.

Treating inflammation - LOA uses nsaids (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) that reduce swelling and the development of blood clots. In the future, tylenol could be administered via IV.

Post-surgery benefits - “Multi-modal analgesics (nerve blocks and anti-inflammatories) reduce GI problems such as bloating and nausea,” Lin said. This speeds recovery and shortens hospital stays.

Dr. Lin is fellowship-trained in arthroscopic shoulder and knee reconstructions, joint preservation, cartilage repair and restoration, and shoulder and knee replacements. He is board certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery and is one of only 2,400 orthopedic surgeons in the U.S. with sub-specialty board certification in sports medicine.

Call Longview Orthopedic Associates at 360.501.3400 for more information