Knee replacement surgery, or knee arthroplasty, involves replacing a damaged, worn, or diseased knee joint with an artificial joint, or prosthesis. This procedure is commonly performed to relieve pain and restore function in patients with severe knee arthritis or injury that has not responded to conservative treatments.
Types of Knee Replacement Surgery
- Total Knee Replacement (TKR): The entire knee joint is replaced, including the femur (thighbone), tibia (shinbone), and patella (kneecap) surfaces.
- Partial Knee Replacement (PKR): Only the damaged part of the knee joint is replaced, preserving as much of the natural knee as possible. This is also known as unicompartmental knee replacement.
- Complex or Revision Knee Replacement: Performed when a previous knee replacement has failed or for severe arthritis cases requiring more complex surgery.
Surgical Procedure
- Preoperative Evaluation: Includes medical history, physical examination, imaging (X-rays, MRI), and blood tests.
- Anesthesia: General anesthesia or spinal/epidural anesthesia.
- Incision and Joint Exposure: The surgeon makes an incision to access the hip joint and removes the damaged bone and cartilage.
- Implant Placement: The new prosthetic components are inserted. The acetabular component is placed in the hip socket, and the femoral component is inserted into the thighbone.
- Closure: The incision is closed with stitches or staples, and a sterile bandage is applied.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
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Hospital Stay: Typically 1-3 days, depending on the patient’s condition and the type of surgery.
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Physical Therapy: Essential for restoring movement and strength. Begins in the hospital and continues for several weeks to months.
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Pain Management: Medications to manage pain and prevent blood clots.
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Activity Restrictions: Gradual return to activities, with avoidance of high-impact sports to prolong the life of the prosthesis.
Risks and Complications
- Infection
- Blood clots
- Implant loosening or wear
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion
- Nerve or blood vessel damage
- Persistent pain
Long-Term Outcomes
Most patients experience significant pain relief, improved mobility, and a better quality of life after knee replacement surgery. The prosthetic knee can last 15-20 years or more, depending on the patient’s activity level and overall health.