Health City Blog

Knee replacement surgery, involving the replacement of a damaged or diseased knee joint with an artificial joint, is a common and effective treatment. In the U.S., around 600,000 such surgeries are performed annually. This procedure significantly improves the quality of life for those with severe knee problems.

When is Knee Replacement Necessary?

Knee replacement surgery, a transformative procedure for those with severe knee pain and disability, is often considered when other treatments have failed. Knee replacement surgery might be necessary when:

You have any of the following conditions:

• Osteoarthritis: The most common reason for knee replacement. This ‘wear-and-tear’ arthritis occurs as the cushioning cartilage in the knee joint gradually wears away, leading to pain, stiffness, and mobility issues.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune condition causing inflammation, pain, and stiffness in the joints. Over time, it can lead to joint damage, necessitating replacement.
• Traumatic Arthritis: Caused by injury, leading to severe knee damage.
• Severe Knee Injury: Accidents or sports injuries can cause irreparable knee damage.
• Deformities: Significant deformities may cause chronic pain and impaired mobility.

That are affecting you with:

• Chronic Pain: Continuous, debilitating knee pain that impedes daily activities.
• Impaired Mobility: Difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or performing routine tasks.
• Poor Quality of Life: When knee issues significantly hamper your lifestyle.
• Failure of Other Treatments: Surgery is considered when medications, physical therapy, and other treatments don’t alleviate symptoms.

Consultation with Specialists

Before deciding on surgery, a thorough evaluation by an orthopedic surgeon is necessary. They will assess your knee condition and overall health and discuss potential benefits and risks.

Knee replacement is a major decision, typically made when it’s clear that other treatments can no longer provide relief and quality of life is significantly affected. Always consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice.

The Knee Replacement Procedure Explained

Knee replacement surgery, meticulously executed by orthopedic surgeons, involves replacing the worn-out or damaged sections of the knee with artificial implants designed to mimic the knee’s natural movement.

1. Removing Damaged Sections: The surgery begins with the careful removal of the damaged cartilage and bone from the knee joint, a crucial step in preparing for the implant.
2. Implanting the Prosthesis: Surgeons then precisely fit the artificial components into place. These implants are typically made from biocompatible materials like metal alloys, ceramic materials, and strong plastic parts, ensuring durability and compatibility with the body.
3. Types of Implants: The choice of the implant – whether it be posterior-stabilized, cruciate-retaining, mobile-bearing, fixed-bearing, or bicruciate-retaining – is tailored to each patient’s specific condition and needs. This customization is key to ensuring the best possible outcome for the patient.
4. Ensuring Natural Movement: The ultimate goal is to create a new knee joint that replicates a healthy knee’s natural movement and function, bringing back the ease and freedom of movement that many patients have lost.

This surgery, while complex, offers a path to improved quality of life, enabling patients to return to their daily activities with reduced pain and enhanced mobility. Each step of the procedure, from the removal of damaged sections to the careful selection and implantation of the prosthesis, is carried out with the utmost precision and care, reflecting the advancements in medical technology and surgical techniques.

Types of Knee Replacement Surgery

Knee replacement surgeries vary based on the extent of the damage and the patient’s specific needs. Here are the common types: