Knee Replacement Surgery
Total knee replacement, also known as total knee arthroplasty (TKA), is a surgical procedure to relieve severe pain and restore function in people with knee problems. This surgery is particularly beneficial for individuals suffering from significant knee pain and limited mobility due to conditions like osteoarthritis.
Understanding Knee Osteoarthritis
Knee osteoarthritis is a condition where the cartilage in the knee joint wears away over time. This can cause chronic knee pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the knee. When other treatments don’t work, total knee replacement surgery can be a great solution.
What is Total Knee Replacement?
In total knee replacement surgery, the damaged parts of the knee are removed and replaced with artificial parts. This helps reduce pain and improve the function of the knee. It’s often recommended for people with severe knee arthritis or knee injuries that haven’t improved with other treatments.
Who Needs Total Knee Replacement Surgery?
- People with severe, ongoing knee pain
- Those with significant knee stiffness and trouble moving
- Individuals who haven’t improved with medications or physical therapy
- People with knee damage visible on X-rays
Goals of Total Knee Replacement
The main goals of total knee replacement surgery are to:
- Relieve severe knee pain
- Improve knee function and movement
- Enhance overall quality of life
The Total Knee Replacement Procedure
Before Surgery
- Health Check: A thorough check-up by your doctor, including medical history and a physical exam.
- X-rays: Imaging tests to plan the surgery.
- Patient Information: Understanding what to expect before, during, and after surgery.
During Surgery
- Incision: Making an opening to access the knee joint.
- Removing Damaged Parts: Taking out the damaged bone and cartilage.
- Placing Implants: Inserting artificial parts to replace the removed bone and cartilage.
- Aligning the Knee: Making sure the new knee joint is properly aligned.
After Surgery
- Pain management with medications
- Physical therapy to regain strength and movement
- Regular check-ups to monitor recovery
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery Time
- Most people start to feel better in 6-12 weeks.
- Full recovery can take 6-12 months.
Rehabilitation
- Gradually increasing physical activity
- Doing specific exercises to strengthen the knee and improve flexibility
- Managing swelling and pain with rest and proper care
What To Expect
- Mild to moderate pain, managed with medication
- Swelling, which will go down with rest
- Better mobility and less pain with regular physical therapy
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does total knee replacement surgery take?
- The surgery usually takes about 1-2 hours.
How long does a total knee replacement last?
- Most knee replacements last between 15-20 years.
What are the risks of total knee replacement?
- Risks include infection, blood clots, and implant problems. Discuss these with your surgeon.
What exercises are recommended after total knee replacement?
- Physical therapy exercises to strengthen the knee and improve flexibility. Follow your therapist’s guidelines.
How long is the recovery time for total knee replacement?
- Initial recovery is 6-12 weeks, full recovery can take up to 12 months.
How painful is total knee replacement?
- Pain levels vary, but most people experience significant pain relief after recovery.
What should I expect after total knee replacement?
- Improved mobility, reduced pain, and a better quality of life with regular physical therapy.
Why do I have pain behind my knee after total knee replacement?
- This can be due to various factors like alignment issues or scar tissue. Contact your surgeon if pain persists.
What can I expect one year after total knee replacement?
- Significant pain relief and improved knee function, allowing for most normal activities.
