Knee Replacement Surgery
Knee Replacement Treatment Overview
What is Knee Replacement Surgery?
Knee replacement surgery is designed to alleviate chronic knee pain caused by conditions such as osteoarthritis or injury. When non-surgical treatments like medications and physical therapy are no longer effective, this surgery may be recommended.
During the procedure, damaged portions of the knee joint are removed and replaced with artificial components. The goal is to enhance joint function, reduce pain, and restore mobility. While knee replacement surgery can offer significant benefits, outcomes may vary depending on individual factors.
The primary reason to consider knee replacement surgery is to relieve persistent knee pain that significantly interferes with daily activities and lowers overall quality of life, particularly when other treatments have failed to provide adequate relief.
Benefits of Knee Replacement Surgery
Knee Replacement Surgery Can Provide Several Potential Benefits, Including:
Effective Pain Relief
Alleviates chronic knee pain that has not improved with other treatments.
Enhanced Mobility
Many patients experience improved range of motion, enabling a return to daily activities.
Improved Quality of Life
With reduced pain and greater mobility, patients often enjoy a more active and fulfilling lifestyle.
Durable Implants
Modern prosthetic implants are designed to be long-lasting, providing relief for many years, though they may eventually need replacement.
Please Note
While many patients experience these benefits, individual results may vary based on factors such as age, overall health, and adherence to post-operative care.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
As with any surgical procedure, knee replacement surgery carries some potential risks, which will be discussed with you in detail before your procedure. These may include:
Infection
Can usually be managed with antibiotics if detected early.
Blood Clots
Preventative measures such as blood-thinning medications and physical therapy will be advised.
Knee Stiffness
Some patients may experience stiffness that may improve with time and rehabilitation.
Implant Wear
While modern implants are durable, they may wear out over time and require revision surgery.
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What Happens During the Procedure?
During knee replacement surgery, the procedure is typically performed under general or spinal anaesthesia to ensure comfort. The operation generally follows these steps:
Anesthesia
You will be administered either general or spinal anaesthesia to ensure you remain pain-free throughout the procedure.
Incision
A small incision is made over the knee to access the joint.
Removal of Damaged Tissue
The damaged bone and cartilage are carefully removed.
Implant Placement
The surgeon replaces the removed bone and cartilage with a prosthetic joint made from materials such as metal, plastic, or ceramic.
Wound Closure
The incision is closed using stitches or staples to secure the area for healing.
This process is performed by a trained orthopaedic surgeon, ensuring that your treatment is handled with care and precision.
Recovery
Recovery from knee replacement surgery begins immediately after the operation, with initial focus on pain management and early mobilisation.
Recovery times vary from person to person, but typically, you can expect to stay in the hospital for a few days post-surgery. Initial recovery involves supervised physical therapy to help regain movement and strength in the knee. Once discharged, you may need assistance with daily activities for a short period. Strenuous activities should be avoided for 6 to 12 weeks to promote healing.
A tailored physiotherapy programme will be provided to support your recovery and help you regain mobility. Following your surgeon’s advice and adhering to your rehabilitation plan are essential for the best outcome.