Adult Reconstructive Surgery Specialist

Nathanael D. Heckmann, MD

Orthopedic Surgeon located in Boyle Heights, Los Angeles, CA & La Canada, Glendale, CA

Adult reconstructive surgery includes advanced orthopedic surgeries to repair and replace severely damaged joints and other musculoskeletal structures. Nathanael Heckmann, MD, is an experienced orthopedic surgeon practicing in the Boyle Heights neighborhood of Los Angeles, and in Glendale, California, near La Cañada. Dr. Heckmann offers state-of-the-art adult reconstructive surgery to help you recover from injuries and degenerative conditions. Call Dr. Heckmann or schedule a consultation online today if you’re looking for expert orthopedic surgery services in Los Angeles.

Adult Reconstructive Surgery Q&A

What is adult reconstructive surgery?

In orthopedics, adult reconstructive surgery includes procedures to repair or replace damaged musculoskeletal tissue. Dr. Heckmann uses state-of-the-art technology such as Mako™ robotic arms by Stryker and Intellijoint Surgical® navigation programs, as well as minimally invasive surgical techniques to repair and reconstruct portions of the pelvis, hip, femur, knee, and tibia.

Why would I need reconstructive surgery?

Dr. Heckmann uses adult reconstructive surgery to repair torn ligaments and tendons, bone fractures, and other painful orthopedic issues. Some of the common injuries and conditions that benefit from reconstructive surgery include:

ACL, PCL, and MCL tears or injuries
Arthritis
Avascular bone necrosis
Cartilage tears
Fractures
Labral tears
Dislocation
Rotator cuff tears
Shoulder instability

Dr. Heckmann usually tries to treat your injury with nonsurgical treatments first. However, if nonsurgical treatments aren’t effective or if your pain and swelling are so severe that you can’t walk or sleep, reconstruction surgery might be your best option.

What happens during adult reconstructive surgery?

Dr. Heckmann uses minimally invasive surgical techniques and innovative robotic surgery technology whenever possible. While you are under general anesthesia, he makes small incisions in your body and inserts the special surgical tools to perform the repairs.

Depending on your needs, Dr. Heckmann might remove damaged tissue before applying a tissue graft or repairing other damage. He can also implant prosthetic joint parts if your natural tissue is severely damaged.

When the reconstruction is complete, he extracts the tools before closing and bandaging your incisions.

What should I expect while recovering after reconstructive surgery?

Dr. Heckmann reviews your aftercare instructions with you before releasing you from the hospital. He usually prescribes medication to reduce your pain and risk of infection. Everyone recovers at their own pace, and Dr. Heckmann provides personalized advice on what you can expect during recovery.

You should be able to get up and walk around soon after your surgery. You start rehabilitation within the first few days. Initially, rehabilitation aims to maintain your flexibility and muscle tone. As your body heals, you and your therapist work together to rebuild your strength and range of motion so you can return to your regular activities.
If you need expert orthopedic care, call Dr. Heckmann or schedule an appointment online today to learn how adult reconstructive surgery can reduce your pain and restore your quality of life.

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