Dr. Cafferky’s Orthopaedic Blog & News
Decoding Hip Replacement Materials: What are Hip Replacements Made Of?
Dr. Cafferky emphasizes, "The selection of hip replacement materials is a critical decision, influenced by factors such as the patient’s age, activity level, bone quality, and potential allergies." At this time, Dr. Cafferky offers Metal-on-Polyethylene (MoP) and Ceramic-on-Polyethylene (CoP) replacement options.
How Long Does a Hip Replacement Last in a Young Person?
"The average age for hip replacement patients has traditionally been older, typically in their 60s plus," notes Dr. Cafferky. "However, we are increasingly seeing younger patients in their 40s and 50s seeking hip replacement surgery to alleviate chronic hip pain and regain full function."
Is there a Minimum Age Requirement for a Knee Replacement?
The question of the minimum age for knee replacement is a topic Dr. Cafferky encounters in his practice. Knee replacement surgery is a transformative procedure that can significantly improve the quality of life for patients with chronic knee pain and debilitating conditions such as osteoarthritis. However, determining the right age for this procedure is a nuanced decision that requires careful consideration.
Pro Tips for Joint Health in 2024: From Prevention to Replacement
As an experienced board-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist with a clinical emphasis on joint replacement surgery, I am keenly aware of the pivotal role joint health plays in maintaining overall well-being. As we usher in 2024, I am sharing my top practical tips to help you safeguard and enhance the health of your joints in the new year.
What to Expect from Your Total Joint Surgery at The Steadman Clinic with Dr. Cafferky
Embark on a transformative journey toward improved joint health through total joint surgery at The Steadman Clinic with Dr. Nathan Cafferky, a board-certified specialist in shoulder and knee joint replacement serving patients in Vail and Frisco, Colorado.
Skiing with Confidence: How Total Joint Replacement Can Rejuvenate Your Winter Adventures
Nathan Cafferky, MD, an esteemed orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist at The Steadman Clinic in Vail, is a leading expert in knee and hip replacement. His exceptional expertise and experience are tailored to the unique needs of winter sports enthusiasts who yearn to return to the slopes.
Nathan Cafferky, MD To Join The Steadman Clinic and Steadman Philippon Research Institute in October, 2023
Nathan Cafferky, M.D., FAAOS (Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons), will join The Steadman Clinic’s orthopaedic surgical team on Oct. 16, 2023. Dr. Cafferky joins The Steadman Clinic’s Drs. Raymond Kim and Joel Matta in the specialty of adult joint reconstruction. He comes to The Steadman Clinic and Steadman Philippon Research Institute (SPRI) after practicing for eight years at Vail-Summit Orthopaedics and Neurosurgery (VSON).
How to Get Ready for Ski Season After Your Joint Replacement
Nathan Cafferky, MD wants patients to know that skiing after a knee or hip replacement surgery is possible. It might seem daunting, but with proper preparation and a focus on ski season readiness, you can hit the slopes with confidence.
Knee Replacement Alternatives
Recognizing that knee replacement surgery may not always be the initial option, Dr. Cafferky often recommends various knee replacement alternatives. He has extensive expertise in total joint replacement of the knee, knee joint revision, and is fellowship-trained in joint reconstruction, which has positioned him to provide patients with appropriate knee replacement alternative treatments.
What is the best knee replacement?
When it comes to choosing the best knee replacement option, it's crucial to seek the guidance of a highly qualified and experienced orthopedic surgeon. In Eagle and Summit counties of Colorado, Dr. Nathan Cafferky of Vail-Summit Orthopaedics & Neurology has established himself as a trusted board-certified orthopedic surgeon, specializing in knee treatments. With clinical expertise in both full and partial knee replacements, Dr. Cafferky offers personalized care to patients in Vail, Frisco, Buena Vista, and Denver.
Returning to Pickleball After a Knee Replacement
Nathan Cafferky, MD, is a board-certified orthopaedic doctor with a strong clinical focus on joint replacement procedures, including knee replacement surgery for active patients. Dr. Cafferky’s explicit goal is to return patients to the lifestyle they enjoy — this includes a growing number of pickleball players. Patients want to know, “Can I play pickleball after knee replacement surgery?” Dr. Cafferky helps patients know how, and when they can return to pickleball following a knee replacement.
5 Benefits of Knee Replacement Surgery
If pain, stiffness, or limited mobility is impacting your ability to do the activities you love most, it may be time to consider a total knee replacement. It's normal to have concerns about getting an artificial joint or feel anxiety about the surgery itself. Yet, for many people, a knee replacement can be transformative, allowing them to resume an active and fulfilling lifestyle.
7 Tips to Help You Prepare for Hip or Knee Replacement Surgery
If you are considering having hip or knee replacement surgery — or have one scheduled — you may be feeling a mix of emotions: excited at the prospect of improved mobility and reduced pain, but also anxious or overwhelmed. However, with the right support and preparation, you can minimize some of the associated stress and set yourself up for a successful surgery and recovery process.
Patient Story: I Chose to Live Now
“For me, the choice for surgery boiled down to one question: do I want to live well now or wait around for some undetermined amount of time? I chose to live NOW.”
Partial Knee Replacement vs. Total Knee Replacement: Which Is Right for You?
No two patients are alike, which means there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to joint replacement surgery. However, several factors will help you and your orthopaedic joint specialist determine whether a partial or total knee replacement is right for you.
3 New Technologies in Total Knee Replacement
If you're considering a total knee replacement, learn more about three new technologies Dr. Cafferky offers to help you get back to doing the activities you love.
Team Cafferky Now Offering Persona IQ®, the World’s First and Only Smart Knee Implant for Total Knee Replacement Surgery
Dr. Cafferky and his team are proud to offer Persona IQ, the world’s first and only smart knee implant granted De Novo status by the FDA for total knee replacement surgery.
Do I Need A Total Knee Replacement?
Here are some signs it’s time to speak with your orthopaedic joint replacement expert about getting a total knee replacement.
What Is Total Replacement Knee Surgery?
Total knee replacement surgery is a procedure that removes the damaged bone and cartilage in the knee joint and replaces it with an implant. This surgery aims to restore knee function, relieve knee pain, and help patients regain their quality of life.
What Is The Recovery Time For a Knee Replacement?
Here's what you can expect from the knee replacement rehabilitation process.