About Knee Replacement Surgery

Knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a procedure that involves removing a damaged or worn-out knee joint and replacing it with an artificial joint made of metal and plastic. This surgery is primarily recommended for individuals suffering from severe knee pain or limited mobility due to conditions such as arthritis or injury. The main objectives of the surgery are to alleviate pain, enhance joint function, and improve the overall quality of life for patients.

Types of Knee Replacement Surgery

1. Total Knee Replacement (TKR): This procedure replaces the entire knee joint by removing the damaged bone and cartilage from the thigh, shin, and kneecap. Artificial components made of metal and plastic are then implanted. TKR is the most common type of knee replacement and provides long-term relief from severe pain and disability.

2. Partial Knee Replacement (PKR): In this surgery, only the damaged portion of the knee is replaced. It is suitable for patients whose arthritis affects only one part of the knee. PKR typically involves a faster recovery time compared to TKR.

3. Kneecap Replacement (Patellofemoral Arthroplasty): This type of surgery replaces only the kneecap or the front part of the knee joint. It is indicated when damage is confined to the kneecap area.

4. Revision Knee Replacement: This surgery is performed to replace a previously implanted knee joint that has worn out or failed over time.

Benefits of Knee Replacement Surgery

• Pain Relief: One of the primary benefits is significant pain relief. Many patients experience a dramatic reduction in knee pain post-surgery, greatly enhancing their daily comfort.

• Improved Mobility: Knee replacement can restore joint movement, allowing patients to walk, climb stairs, and perform daily activities more easily.

• Enhanced Quality of Life: By alleviating pain and improving function, the surgery helps individuals return to activities they enjoy, such as gardening, walking, or playing sports.

• Increased Stability: The new knee joint provides improved stability and balance, reducing the risk of falls and injuries.

• Long-Term Solution: Knee replacements typically last 15-20 years or more with proper care, providing a durable solution for severe arthritis or joint damage.

Risks of Knee Replacement Surgery

• Infection: There is a small risk of infection at the surgical site or in the new joint, which may require additional treatment.

• Blood Clots: Blood clots can form in the legs after surgery, posing a risk of serious complications if they travel to the lungs (pulmonary embolism).

• Bleeding: Some bleeding may occur during or after the procedure, which could lead to complications.

• Joint Stiffness: The new knee joint may become stiff, potentially making movement difficult. This can often be managed with physical therapy.

• Nerve or Blood Vessel Damage: There is a slight risk of damaging nerves or blood vessels around the knee, which may result in numbness or other complications.

• Prosthesis Problems: Over time, the artificial knee may wear out or loosen, possibly necessitating revision surgery.

Procedure of Knee Replacement Surgery

The knee replacement procedure generally follows these steps:

1. Pre-operative Testing: Patients undergo medical evaluations, blood tests, an electrocardiogram, a stress test, a chest X-ray, and a urine sample.

2. Surgical Steps:

   • The procedure typically lasts 1 to 2 hours.

   • The surgeon makes an incision over the knee to access the joint.

   • Diseased and damaged bone and cartilage are removed while preserving healthy bone.

   • The artificial components are then implanted into the thighbone, shinbone, and kneecap.

3. Wound Closure: After the implants are securely placed, the incision is closed, and a sterile bandage is applied.

After the Procedure

Post-surgery, many patients experience significant pain relief, improved mobility, and enhanced quality of life. Most knee replacements are expected to last at least 15 to 20 years.

Once recovered, patients can typically engage in low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, golfing, or biking. However, higher-impact activities, such as jogging or sports involving contact or jumping, should generally be avoided.

Physical therapy and rehabilitation play a crucial role in the recovery process, helping patients regain strength and mobility in the new joint.