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Our surgeons are all specialized in various orthopaedic conditions and we continue to focus on primary and revision total joint replacement surgery. Some of the unique surgical procedures are performed by Frederick F. Buechel, M.D., who is world renowned in total joint replacement, reconstructive surgery and arthritis surgery services.

Total shoulder replacement, hemi-shoulder replacement (partial shoulder replacement) surgery and resurfacing shoulder replacement surgeries are surgical options for some patients. Many patients with severe debilitating pain from osteo-arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, post traumatic arthritis or severe injuries have had outstanding results from the various total shoulder replacement surgeries that are available. The largest complaint of patients with severe shoulder conditions is the limited daily activities caused by severe pain and limited range of motion. A patient should be evaluated so the surgeon can determine whether the patient is a candidate for a total shoulder, hemi shoulder replacement (partial shoulder) or resurfacing shoulder surgery. The Resurfacing Shoulder is another option where the implant is designed to "cap" only the top portion of the humerus.

The uni-compartmental knee, also referred to as the "uni knee" is a less invasive surgery than total knee replacement. Patients who have osteoarthritis in one compartment of the knee are candidates for the uni knee replacement surgery. As in traditional knee replacement surgery, the knee is not replaced, only the cartilage. The uni-compartmental knee "uni knee" is designed to provide the patient with a functional knee joint. The patient is evaluated by our surgeon to determine whether the patient is a candidate for replacement of all or part of the knee.

Resurfacing hip replacement surgery is also very popular, especially with younger patients who suffer from severe osteoarthritis. Resurfacing hip replacement is sometimes recommended for patients between the ages of 35 and 55. The traditional treatment of a patient that required a hip replacement has been a stem-type replacement. The decision to perform a hip resurfacing is determined by diagnosis, the age of the patient, the patient's level of activity and expectations. The resurfacing hip replacement offers a long-term outcome for young and active patients while saving bone for later revision when necessary. This conservative approach to hip replacement accounts for the popularity of the procedure.

The Buechel-Pappas ™ total ankle replacement completed clinical trials and the ankle replacement continues to be widely used in Europe. It is available in the United States under the FDA Compassionate
Use Program only. You may contact the manufacturer directly at www.endotec.com for further information. Dr. Buechel is renowned in the field of total ankle replacement, shoulder replacement, hemi shoulder replacement, total knee replacements, uni- knee (uni-compartmental knee) replacement, total hip replacement, resurfacing hip replacement and hemi-hip replacement. Dr. Buechel has been doing joint replacement surgery for over 20 years. Ankle replacement surgery is an excellent option to fusion for eligible candidates. The primary reason why a patient should undergo ankle replacements surgery, and other joint replacement surgery is primarily for pain relief and improved range of motion.

In addition to joint replacement, our surgeons are experienced in sports injuries, arthroscopic and laser surgery and spinal disorders. We offer consultations, surgical option, diagnostic evaluation, pain management, and if necessary, surgical intervention. Please contact us and our experienced staff will assist you in scheduling a convenient appointment.

Frederick F. Buechel, MD     Thomas E. Helbig, MD     Thomas F. Cuomo, M.D

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South Mountain Orthopaedic Associates
61 First Street - South Orange, NJ 07079 - 973-762-8344

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