Total knee replacement: what is it?
A damaged knee joint is surgically replaced with a prosthesis (an artificial joint) constructed of metal and plastic during a total knee replacement. Knee arthroplasty is a different name for total knee replacement surgery.
Who can benefit from having their entire knee replaced?
Different forms of arthritis, primarily osteoarthritis, can wear down the surfaces of the knee, resulting in discomfort, restricted movement, and stiffness. A total knee replacement may be required in certain circumstances. Total knee replacement surgery may also be necessary due to other medical disorders such bone deformities, growth issues, and knee joint injuries.
Procedure
Under a general anesthetic, total knee replacement surgery typically takes two hours to complete. Your surgeon makes an incision to expose the kneecap, which is then moved aside to reach the broken ends of the thigh and shin bones. Following the removal of the damaged bones, a prosthesis is created using their measurements. The new metal fittings are used to replace the ends of the thigh and shin bones, and bone cement is sometimes not required. After that, a piece of plastic is put in between the two metal ends, replacing the cartilage and assisting in reducing any friction. The incision is then stitched or secured with surgical clips before being bandaged (and occasionally with a splint). A tube may occasionally be left in the knee to let fluid to drain out, but it will be removed 48 hours after surgery.
Recovery period
Following surgery, you will need to stay in the hospital for a few days (maximum one week). A physiotherapist will be assigned to you to help you walk using a walker, then a cane or crutches. They’ll also recommend a variety of activities for you to do to strengthen the joint. Up to three months may pass before you regain complete movement and all discomfort and swelling go down. Following a total knee replacement, patients can typically resume work and begin driving 4-6 weeks later, however this can vary depending on the patient and the specifics of their profession.
Risks
Total knee replacement surgery risks include tissue injury, wound infection, bleeding, fluid buildup, and blood clotting. Risks include the prosthesis breaking, numbness, dislocation, and a visible variation in leg length.
