Knee replacement is a surgery in which damaged joint surfaces are replaced with metal and medical-grade plastic components. It is usually performed for advanced knee osteoarthritis and some other forms of arthritis, with the aim of easing pain and improving movement and walking.
In a total replacement, the surfaces of the thigh bone and shin bone are resurfaced, and often the kneecap as well. In a partial replacement, only the damaged compartment is replaced, when the disease is confined to it. The operation is done under general or spinal anaesthesia through an incision at the front of the knee, and the surgeon fixes the components with or without bone cement, depending on the case.
The operation usually takes one to two hours, and most patients stay in hospital for one to three days. Walking with assistance typically begins within about a day, followed by several weeks of physiotherapy, and improvement continues for roughly six months to a year before the final result becomes clear.
The final cost is set after a medical consultant reviews your case and photos.
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The operation relieves chronic pain and, in many patients, improves movement, walking and stair climbing, which tends to improve everyday quality of life.
It suits people with severe knee pain and stiffness that have not improved with medication, physiotherapy and injections. The surgeon decides between total and partial replacement after an examination and imaging.
A total replacement resurfaces the whole joint, while a partial one replaces only the damaged part when the problem is limited and the knee ligaments are healthy. The surgeon decides which is more appropriate for you.
Preparation usually includes blood tests, imaging, and heart and anaesthetic assessment. Physiotherapy beforehand and adapting your home are often advised. Tell your doctor about all your medicines, and never stop any of them, especially blood thinners, on your own; that decision belongs to your doctor.
The surgeon removes the damaged cartilage and bone and fixes metal and plastic components that imitate the joint. The wound is then closed and dressed, and a small drain may be left in for a short time.
Patients usually stand and walk with assistance on about the first day, then keep up physiotherapy exercises for several weeks. A crutch or walker is used temporarily, and medicines are given for pain and to help prevent blood clots.
Pain eases gradually and movement settles over several months. A knee implant may last many years, but this varies between patients and cannot be guaranteed.
They include infection, bleeding, leg blood clots, knee stiffness, loosening of the components over time, and nerve or blood vessel injury. A revision operation may be needed later.
It leaves a vertical scar at the front of the knee, which improves over the following months. It is often shorter after a partial replacement.
Often after about ten to fourteen days, and sometimes later to reduce the risk of blood clots. Your treating doctor will confirm the right time to travel based on your condition.
