Reconstructive Surgery

Reconstructive Surgery at Dr. Burke Orthopedics: Restoring Function and Mobility After Injury


Comprehensive Orthopedic Reconstruction for Long-Term Recovery

At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we understand that trauma, injury, and degenerative joint conditions can severely impact your mobility and quality of life. Our Reconstructive Surgery Program is designed to restore function, strength, and alignment in damaged or malformed joints—helping you return to the activities you love with confidence.

Dr. Robert L. Burke, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, brings decades of expertise in complex joint repair and reconstruction to patients across Houston, Pearland, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas. His patient-first approach ensures each individual receives a treatment plan that’s medically sound, evidence-based, and designed for long-term success.

  • Restoring Strength and Mobility
  • Long-Term Relief
  • Expert Personalized Care

Why Choose Dr. Burke for Reconstructive Surgery?

  • Extensive Expertise in Complex Joint Repairs

    Dr. Burke has successfully performed numerous reconstructive surgeries for patients recovering from severe trauma, congenital joint abnormalities, or complications from previous procedures. His advanced surgical techniques and experience in joint realignment, bone grafting, and ligament reconstruction ensure each patient receives the highest level of care possible.

  • Tailored Surgical Approaches for Every Patient

    No two injuries are alike, which is why Dr. Burke customizes every procedure to meet the patient’s unique needs. Using advanced diagnostic imaging, he evaluates the extent of damage and determines whether your procedure will involve ligament repair, tendon reconstruction, bone grafting, or joint realignment.
    This precision-driven approach ensures stronger, more stable, and more natural joint function post-surgery.

  • FDA-Approved Implants for Long-Lasting Results

    Dr. Burke exclusively uses FDA-approved surgical materials and implants that have been rigorously tested for durability, safety, and biocompatibility. These implants are designed to function like your natural joint, providing years of stability and comfort.
    Patients benefit from enhanced mobility and reduced pain—without limitations on daily activities.

  • Comprehensive Post-Surgical Rehabilitation

    Your recovery doesn’t end after surgery. At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we partner closely with physical therapists to design individualized rehabilitation programs that help you regain strength, flexibility, and confidence in your joint.
    This collaborative approach ensures smoother recovery and long-term functional success.

What is Reconstructive Surgery?

Reconstructive surgery is a specialized orthopedic procedure that focuses on repairing or rebuilding joints, bones, and soft tissues affected by trauma, deformity, or degenerative disease.
The goal is to restore normal alignment, stability, and range of motion—improving both comfort and function.

Common conditions treated with reconstructive surgery include:

  • Trauma: Joint damage or fractures caused by accidents or falls.
  • Arthritis: Advanced osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis that has severely damaged the joint.
  • Congenital Defects: Structural deformities present from birth that affect joint alignment or function.
  • Failed Previous Surgeries: Complications or mechanical failures from past orthopedic procedures.

  • Trauma:: Joint injuries caused by accidents or fractures.
  • Arthritis:: Severe cases of osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis that have caused joint damage.
  • Congenital Defects:: Joint abnormalities present at birth.
  • Failed Previous Surgeries:: Patients who have experienced complications or failure from previous joint surgeries.

Am I a Candidate for Reconstructive Surgery?

You may be a candidate for reconstructive surgery if you:

  • Have suffered from fractures or trauma that healed improperly.
  • Experience chronic pain or stiffness from degenerative joint conditions.
  • Struggle with limited mobility due to joint deformity or past surgical failure.
  • Need corrective surgery to regain proper alignment and function.

  • Have experienced joint trauma or fractures that have not healed properly.
  • Suffer from advanced degenerative joint conditions that limit mobility and cause chronic pain.
  • Have joint deformities that interfere with daily activities or cause discomfort.
  • Require corrective surgery after a failed joint procedure or previous injury.

Dr. Burke performs a comprehensive evaluation that includes physical examination and imaging (X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans) to accurately assess joint damage and determine the most effective surgical approach.

  • Patients suffering from severe knee or hip pain due to osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or traumatic injury.
  • Individuals who have not found relief from non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, or medications.
  • Athletes and active individuals seeking a durable solution that allows them to return to high levels of activity with confidence.
  • Younger patients who need precise alignment for a longer-lasting implant or those with complex joint anatomy.

The Reconstructive Surgery Process: What to Expect

  • Step 1: Evaluation and Planning

    Dr. Burke begins with a thorough diagnostic evaluation to determine the cause and severity of the joint issue. Advanced imaging and medical history help guide the surgical strategy, ensuring the most effective path to restoration.

  • Step 2: Personalized Surgical Treatment

    During reconstructive surgery, Dr. Burke may perform a combination of techniques, such as:

    • Joint Realignment: Correcting misaligned joints to restore natural motion.
    • Ligament and Tendon Repair: Strengthening or reconstructing soft tissues to stabilize the joint.
    • Bone Grafting: Replacing damaged bone tissue with healthy graft material to enhance healing and support.

  • Step 3: Post-Surgical Rehabilitation

    Recovery begins immediately after surgery. Patients typically start physical therapy within a few days, focusing on gentle motion, swelling reduction, and strength-building exercises. Dr. Burke’s ongoing supervision ensures that recovery is both safe and effective.

Benefits of Reconstructive Surgery

  • Pain Relief: Eliminates or significantly reduces chronic joint pain caused by injury or degeneration.
  • Restored Functionality: Improves mobility, flexibility, and joint strength for long-term use.
  • Enhanced Quality of Life: Allows patients to return to work, sports, and daily activities comfortably.
  • Personalized Precision: Each procedure is customized to address the patient’s exact needs and anatomy.

  • Pain Relief: Reconstructive surgery can eliminate chronic joint pain caused by injury or degeneration, providing long-term relief.
  • Restored Functionality: After surgery, patients experience significant improvements in joint mobility and stability, allowing for a return to daily activities.
  • Improved Quality of Life: Restoring joint function often results in a better overall quality of life, with patients able to resume hobbies, exercise, and work without discomfort.
  • Custom-Tailored Surgery: Each surgery is personalized to address the specific damage to your joint, ensuring the best possible results.

Risks and Potential Complications

While reconstructive surgery is safe and effective, as with any surgical procedure, some risks may occur.
Potential complications include:

  • Infection or delayed wound healing
  • Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis)
  • Implant loosening or mechanical wear over time
  • Temporary nerve irritation or stiffness (rare)

  • Infection at the surgical site.
  • Blood clots forming in the legs or lungs.
  • Implant failure or loosening over time, though modern implants are highly durable.
  • Nerve damage, which is rare but can occur depending on the complexity of the surgery.

Dr. Burke follows strict safety protocols and uses advanced surgical techniques to minimize risks and ensure a smooth, successful recovery.

  • Associates Insurance
  • Pina & Insurance

Recovery After Reconstructive Surgery

The recovery timeline varies depending on the type and complexity of the procedure, but most patients follow this general outline:

  • Weeks 1–2: Rest and joint protection using a brace or crutches. Physical therapy begins within the first week to promote range of motion.
  • Weeks 3–6: Gradual improvement in mobility and strength as swelling subsides.
  • Months 3–6: Continued therapy and strength training restore full mobility and function, allowing patients to resume most normal activities.

  • Week 1-2: You may need to use crutches or a brace to protect the joint while it begins to heal. Physical therapy will likely begin within the first week to help regain range of motion and reduce swelling.
  • Week 3-6: You’ll continue physical therapy to improve strength, flexibility, and mobility. Pain and swelling will gradually decrease, and most patients can start to resume light activities.
  • Months 3-6: Patients typically regain full mobility and strength within 3 to 6 months, depending on the complexity of the surgery. By the end of this period, you should be able to return to normal activities, including work, sports, and exercise.

Dr. Burke provides personalized rehabilitation guidance throughout the process, ensuring steady progress and lasting results.

  • Patients suffering from severe knee or hip pain due to osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or traumatic injury.
  • Individuals who have not found relief from non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, or medications.
  • Athletes and active individuals seeking a durable solution that allows them to return to high levels of activity with confidence.
  • Younger patients who need precise alignment for a longer-lasting implant or those with complex joint anatomy.

Reconstructive Surgery vs. Other Orthopedic Procedures

While procedures like arthroscopy and joint replacement focus on specific conditions, reconstructive surgery addresses severe joint damage, deformities, or surgical failures that limit mobility.
Unlike non-surgical treatments, reconstructive surgery corrects the underlying structural issues, offering long-term stability, strength, and pain relief.

This makes it an ideal option for patients who require comprehensive repair beyond what conservative methods can achieve.

  • Durable and Effective Results
  • Comprehensive Joint Restoration

Why Patients Across Houston & Pearland Trust Dr. Burke Orthopedics

  • Board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in complex reconstructive joint surgery
  • FDA-approved materials and evidence-based surgical techniques
  • Comprehensive care including diagnosis, surgery, and rehabilitation
  • Trusted by patients across Houston, Pearland, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas

  • Durable and Effective Results
  • Comprehensive Joint Restoration

Get Same-Day Appointments and
Expert Surgical Consultations

If you’re experiencing chronic joint pain, deformity, or complications from a prior procedure, Dr. Burke Orthopedics can help. We offer same-day appointments and diagnostic evaluations to determine whether reconstructive surgery is right for you.
Our mission is to help you regain mobility, reduce pain, and restore your confidence in movement.