Knee Replacement Surgery: A Comprehensive Guide

Understanding Knee Replacement: A Comprehensive Guide

January 30, 2024

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.

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.
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.
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.
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:

Total Knee Replacement (TKR): Involves replacing the entire knee joint. It’s the most common type, ideal for those with severe arthritis or knee damage.
Partial Knee Replacement (PKR): Also known as unicompartmental knee replacement, this surgery replaces only the damaged part of the knee, preserving as much of the natural knee as possible. It’s suitable for patients with damage limited to a specific part of the knee.
Revision Knee Replacement: This is performed when a previous knee replacement fails. It involves replacing the old implants with new ones and is more complex than primary knee replacement.
Kneecap Replacement (Patellofemoral Arthroplasty): This less common type involves replacing only the under-surface of the kneecap and its groove.

Each type of knee replacement surgery has its indications and is selected based on individual patient assessments. The decision is made by the orthopedic surgeon based on factors like the extent of knee damage, the patient’s age, activity level, and overall health.

Post-operative Care and Rehabilitation

After knee replacement, expect some downtime during recovery. Immediate post-operative care includes managing pain and swelling and safely getting around with aids like walkers or canes. It is crucial to arrange your living space to reduce hazards. Incorporating regular physical activity and physical and occupational therapy is vital for recovery and regaining mobility. Diet, hygiene, and rest are also critical. Maintaining a clean incision site, following specific bathing instructions, and ensuring proper sleep positions are essential for a smooth recovery.

Conclusion

Knee replacement surgery provides pain relief, improved mobility, and improved quality of life. Typically, knee replacements have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years. Post-recovery, patients can engage in low-impact activities like walking, swimming, and biking but should avoid high-impact activities like contact sports.

Hopefully, you now have a comprehensive understanding of knee replacement surgery, from the need for it through to the recovery process. Remember, each patient’s journey is unique, and it’s important to consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will my knee replacement last?

Most knee replacements last 20 years or more, depending on activity levels and body weight management.

What’s the recovery time?

Recovery varies, but typically, patients start full, weight-bearing walking on the same day of surgery with the help of walkers or crutches. They may need a walking aid for 2-4 weeks. Ninety percent recovery may take around three months. The knee gets stronger with time and may take one year for full improvement.

When can I shower post-surgery?

You can shower from the second day after surgery, keeping waterproof dressings on. We suggest not to wet the wound for two weeks.

Can I travel post-surgery?

Travel is usually possible one to two weeks after surgery, with precautions against stiffness and blood clots during long trips. We usually advise three weeks of blood thinners post-surgery.

What activities can I resume post-surgery?

After surgery, low-impact activities like walking, gardening, and swimming are encouraged, while high-impact sports should be avoided.

When should I seek medical advice post-operatively?

Seek advice for symptoms like prolonged fever, increasing knee pain or redness, pus discharge, severe calf pain, breathing difficulty or chest pain.

How often should I follow up with my doctor?

Follow-up appointments are typically scheduled at two weeks, six weeks, 12 weeks, and one year post-surgery.