Knee pain can be debilitating, affecting every step you take. For millions, knee replacement offers a new lease on life—relief from chronic pain and a return to everyday activities. At The Orthopaedic And Pain Practice, we understand the profound impact knee replacement can have, and we’re here to guide you through the journey with expert insight.
What Is Knee Replacement?
Knee replacement, also known as total knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to replace damaged or worn parts of the knee joint with artificial implants. This surgery is primarily recommended for patients suffering from severe arthritis or injury that causes persistent pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.
Unlike what the name suggests, knee replacement is often more accurately described as knee resurfacing. The procedure involves removing damaged cartilage and bone from the femur (thigh bone), tibia (shin bone), and sometimes the patella (kneecap), then capping these areas with metal and plastic components to restore smooth joint function.
Why Consider Knee Replacement Surgery?
When conservative treatments like medication, physical therapy, or injections no longer relieve knee pain, knee replacement surgery becomes a viable option. This surgery has a high success rate, with most patients experiencing significant pain reduction and improved quality of life.
Here’s what knee replacement can do for you:
- Alleviate chronic knee pain caused by osteoarthritis or injury
- Restore knee function and stability
- Improve alignment and mobility
- Enable return to daily activities and, for some, even sports
The Knee Replacement Surgery Process
Understanding the steps of knee surgery can help ease anxiety and prepare you for what lies ahead.
Pre-Surgery Preparation
Before surgery, you will undergo a thorough medical evaluation, including blood tests, X-rays, and physical exams. Anesthesia—either general or spinal—is administered to ensure comfort during the procedure.
Surgical Procedure
- Incision and Exposure: The surgeon makes an incision over the knee (usually 6–10 inches) and moves the kneecap aside to access the joint.
- Removal of Damaged Tissue: Damaged cartilage and bone from the femur and tibia are carefully removed. The bone surfaces are then shaped to fit the implants.
- Implant Placement: Metal components are attached to the femur and tibia, either cemented or press-fit. A plastic spacer is inserted between these metal parts to allow smooth movement. If necessary, the patella is resurfaced with a plastic implant.
- Closure: The surgeon repairs tissue layers and closes the incision with sutures or staples.
Advanced techniques like computer navigation or robotic assistance may be used to enhance precision.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery from knee replacement surgery is a gradual process that can take up to a year. Initially, pain and swelling are managed with medication and physical therapy begins soon after surgery to restore strength and mobility.
Key recovery milestones include:
- Walking with assistance (walker or cane) within days
- Increasing knee motion and strength over weeks
- Resuming normal activities within 3 to 6 months, depending on individual progress
Adhering to a structured rehabilitation plan is critical for the best outcomes.
Types of Knee Replacement
While total knee arthroplasty is the most common, partial knee replacement is an option for select patients with damage confined to one part of the knee. Partial procedures are less invasive but not suitable for everyone.
When Revision Surgery Is Needed
Though knee replacement is highly successful, implants can wear out or loosen over time. If this occurs, revision total knee replacement may be necessary to replace some or all components and restore function.
Revision surgery is more complex and requires specialized implants, but it shares the same goal: relieving pain and improving knee function.
Final Thoughts
Knee replacement surgery is a transformative procedure that can dramatically improve your quality of life. If chronic knee pain is holding you back, learning about your options is the first step. At The Orthopaedic And Pain Practice, we provide expert care tailored to your needs, guiding you through knee surgery with compassion and precision.
Ready to take the next step? Explore the benefits and risks of knee replacement surgery with us and reclaim your mobility today!