Joint Replacement For Knee

Knee replacement, or knee arthroplasty, is a type of surgery in which a worn out or damaged knee joint is replaced with an artificial knee joint. This procedure is usually performed on patients with extreme stiffness in the knee, chronic pain, and limited mobility due to osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, or knee trauma.

Enhances mobility and relieves initial pain.

Enables independence in daily tasks.

Long-lasting implants reduce the need for future surgery.

TYPES OF KNEE REPLACEMENT

Total Knee Replacement

A total knee replacement involves putting an artificial implant in both the femoral (thigh bone) and tibial (shin bone).

Partial Knee Replacement

Only the damaged part of the knee is surgically replaced, preserving healthy bone and ligaments.

Kneecap (Patellofemoral) Replacement

An operation that replaces the undersurface of the kneecap and the groove on the femur where it slides.

Materials Used For Implants

1 Metal-on-Plastic

The femoral component is metal, the tibial component is plastic, most widely used type.

2 Ceramic-on-ceramic

A bone-sparing and wear-reducing option.

3 Metal-on-Metal

The shading of metal particles raises some concerns; this option is not used as often.

PROCEDURE

It can be done under general or spinal anaesthesia.

STEP-1

A surgeon makes an incision over the knee joint and removes damaged bone and cartilage.

STEP-2

Artificial implants can be firmly affixed with either bone cement or a press-fit technique.

STEP-3

Before stitching the cut, the incision's width, depth, and length are checked for proper movement and alignment.

STEP-4

Recovery & Rehabilitation

Hospitalization

Usually 24-48 hours after surgery.

Complete Recovery

Complete rehabilitation takes about 8-12 weeks, still dependent on the patient's health and the rehabilitation activity.

Physical Therapy

A physical rehabilitation session is done right after to regain strength and movement.

Precautions

Do not twist excessively, use assistive devices, stick to therapy, refrain from high-impact sports, avoid infections, control body weight, and prevent falling.