“Restoring freedom of movement”
Total Knee Replacement
Knee replacement, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to alleviate pain and restore mobility in individuals suffering from severe knee joint problems.
Who require knee replacement?
Common indications include:
- Severe arthritis (osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis)
- Degenerative joint disease
- Traumatic injury to the knee
- Osteonecrosis (loss of blood supply to the bone)
- Knee deformities that hinder normal movement
Grades of Knee Arthiritis
Mild (Grade 1 & 2)
- Minimal joint degeneration
- Mild to moderate pain during specific activities or after prolonged use
- Manage their daily activities with some modifications
- Might not significantly affect their quality of life
- Non-surgical options like medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications, intra-articular injections
Severe ( Grade 3 & 4)
- Significant joint damage
- Persistent and intense pain, even at rest, making daily activities challenging
- Stiffness is more pronounced
- Impairs daily life, limiting the ability to walk, climb stairs, or perform routine tasks independently
- Often greatly affect quality of life
- Non-surgical treatments might not provide adequate relief. Joint replacement surgery (knee replacement) becomes a viable option to alleviate pain, restore mobility, and improve the overall function of the knee joint
FAQs
Knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure in which the damaged or diseased parts of the knee joint are replaced with artificial components (prostheses) made of metal, plastic, or ceramic, to relieve pain and restore joint function.
Candidates for knee replacement surgery are individuals who experience chronic knee pain and reduced mobility due to conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, or avascular necrosis, and who have not found sufficient relief through non-surgical treatments.
The actual surgery usually takes around 1 to 2 hours. However, the total time spent in the operating room may vary depending on various factors, including the complexity of the procedure and the patient’s unique needs.
Knee replacement surgery is typically performed under either general anesthesia, which puts the patient to sleep during the procedure, or regional anesthesia, such as spinal or epidural anesthesia, which numbs the lower part of the body while the patient remains conscious.
The recovery time varies for each individual, but most patients can expect to be in the hospital for a few days after surgery. Full recovery and return to normal activities may take several weeks to a few months, depending on the patient’s overall health and adherence to rehabilitation exercises.
Like any surgical procedure, knee replacement surgery carries some risks, such as infection, blood clots, implant loosening, and nerve or blood vessel damage. However, these complications are relatively rare, and advancements in surgical techniques have significantly reduced the risks.
After a successful recovery, most patients can resume low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, and cycling. However, high-impact activities and contact sports may need to be avoided to ensure the longevity of the artificial joint.
The lifespan of a knee replacement can vary depending on factors such as the patient’s age, activity level, and overall health. With modern prosthetic materials and advancements in surgical techniques, knee replacements can often last 15 to 20 years or more.
Kneeling can be challenging for some patients after knee replacement surgery. While some individuals may find it possible to kneel with time and practice, it’s essential to follow the guidance of the orthopedic surgeon regarding post-surgery activities.
Preparation for knee replacement surgery includes physical exercises to strengthen the muscles around the knee, quitting smoking (if applicable), managing any chronic medical conditions, and discussing the procedure thoroughly with the surgeon to address any concerns.
Knee replacement aims to improve the overall quality of life by:
• Reducing chronic knee pain and discomfort
• Restoring mobility and joint function
• Enhancing the ability to participate in daily activities and hobbies
• Improving sleep patterns and mental well-being
No, not all knee pain requires knee replacement surgery. Knee pain can have various causes, and knee replacement is considered only when other non-surgical treatments have not provided sufficient relief and the knee joint is significantly damaged. Before considering knee replacement, orthopedic specialists typically explore conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications, injections, weight management, and lifestyle modifications to manage knee pain effectively. The decision to undergo knee replacement is based on the severity of the condition, the impact on daily life, and the patient’s response to conservative therapies.