Areas of Expertise

Total Knee Replacement

A surgical procedure that replaces the damaged surfaces of the knee joint with artificial components is called Total knee replacement or Total knee arthroplasty.

The surgery aims to relieve pain, improve mobility, and restore function to the knee joint for patients suffering from severe knee osteoarthritis or injury.

What leads to Total Knee Replacement?

Total knee replacement surgery is generally advised for those who suffer from debilitating knee pain that hampers their ability to engage in daily activities.

Individuals may experience an agonizing stiffness in the knee joint, limiting their flexibility and movement.

Many find themselves unable to walk or climb stairs without encountering significant discomfort, turning simple tasks into daunting challenges.

The pain may linger even during rest or disrupt sleep at night, casting a shadow over one’s quality of life.

Primary Causes Leading to Total Knee Replacement

Osteoarthritis

This is the most common reason for undergoing a Total Knee Replacement. Osteoarthritis involves the gradual wear and tear of the cartilage in the knee joint, resulting in pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

This autoimmune condition causes chronic inflammation in the knee joint, leading to joint damage and deformity over time.

Osteonecrosis

Occurs when there is reduced blood flow to the knee bone, causing the bone tissue to die and resulting in joint damage.

Knee Injuries or Fractures

Traumatic injuries, such as fractures or ligament damage, can lead to long-term joint instability and degeneration, which may make replacement surgery necessary.

Bone Tumors

Tumors affecting the knee joint may require surgical intervention, including Total Knee Replacement, to restore functionality.

Failed Non-Surgical Treatments

Considered when conservative treatments, such as physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections, or arthroscopic surgery, fail to provide adequate relief.

Functional Limitations

Severe pain while walking, climbing stairs, or even at rest, as well as deformities like bowing of the knee or chronic inflammation and swelling that do not respond to other treatments.

Surgical Procedure for Knee Replacement

Preparation of the Bone

The journey begins as the surgeon delicately removes the damaged cartilage and a precise amount of bone from both the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone).

Positioning of Metal Implants

Metal components are expertly positioned at the ends of the femur and tibia, serving as the foundation for a new joint surface.

Resurfacing the Patella

The procedure may involve resurfacing the undersurface of the kneecap (patella) with a smooth plastic button, ensuring a personalized approach.

Inserting a Spacer

A specially engineered medical-grade plastic spacer is inserted between the metal components to aid in natural movement.

The entire surgical process typically unfolds over one to two hours and can be performed under either general or regional anesthesia.

Recovery Process

  • Hospital stay of 1 to 3 days for close monitoring and initial healing.
  • Physical therapy to restore strength and mobility.
  • Use of mobility aids like crutches or walkers for support.
  • Notable improvements within 12 weeks, with complete recovery taking up to a full year.
  • Around 82% of total knee replacements maintain effectiveness for 25 years or longer.
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