What is Knee Replacement Surgery?

Knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a highly effective procedure designed to relieve pain and restore function in patients with severe knee joint damage. This surgical intervention involves removing the damaged parts of the knee joint and replacing them with artificial components, called prostheses. These components mimic the natural knee joint, allowing for improved mobility and reduced pain.

How is Knee Replacement Surgery Done?

1. Preoperative Assessment: A thorough evaluation is conducted to assess the patient’s overall health and suitability for surgery. This includes medical history, physical examination, and imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI scans.
2. Anaesthesia: The surgery is performed under general anaesthesia or regional anaesthesia (spinal or epidural), ensuring the patient is pain-free during the procedure.
3. Incision: An incision is made over the knee to access the damaged joint.
4. Removal of Damaged Tissue: The surgeon removes the damaged cartilage and bone from the knee joint.
5. Implantation of Prosthesis: The knee joint is replaced with a prosthesis, which consists of a femoral component, a tibial component, and sometimes a patellar component. The femoral component is implanted into the thigh bone, the tibial component into the shin bone, and the patellar component replaces the kneecap.
6. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or staples, and a sterile dressing is applied.

Why is Knee Replacement Surgery Done?

Knee replacement surgery is performed to relieve pain and improve function in patients with severe knee joint damage that has not responded to conservative treatments. Common reasons for knee replacement include:

• Osteoarthritis: Severe degeneration of the knee joint due to wear and tear.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: Chronic inflammation causing joint damage.
• Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Arthritis following a knee injury.
• Knee Deformities: Conditions causing significant deformity and functional impairment.

Who Might Need Knee Replacement Surgery?

Knee replacement surgery is recommended for individuals who experience:

• Severe knee pain that interferes with daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, and getting in and out of chairs.
• Persistent pain that continues despite the use of pain medications and physical therapy.
• Limited range of motion in the knee joint.
• Knee joint stiffness that impairs the ability to move the leg.
• Reduced quality of life due to knee joint problems.

Conditions Treated with Knee Replacement Surgery

• Severe Osteoarthritis: Knee replacement is often the best option for those with advanced osteoarthritis.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: When inflammation leads to significant joint damage.
• Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Arthritis resulting from a previous knee injury.
• Knee Deformities: Such as bowleg or knock-knee that causes knee joint problems in adulthood.

Recovery Times

Recovery from knee replacement surgery varies by individual but generally follows this timeline:

• Hospital Stay: Typically, patients stay in the hospital for 2-5 days post-surgery.
• Initial Recovery: Walking with the aid of crutches or a walker is encouraged within a day or two after surgery.
• Physical Therapy: A structured rehabilitation programme begins soon after surgery to regain strength and mobility.
• Full Recovery: Most patients resume normal activities within 3 to 6 months, although some may take up to a year for complete recovery.

Tips for a Good Recovery

1. Follow Postoperative Instructions: Adhere to your surgeon’s guidelines on wound care, activity restrictions, and medication.
2. Physical Therapy: Engage in prescribed physical therapy exercises to enhance strength and mobility.
3. Home Modifications: Make necessary adjustments at home, such as installing grab bars and using a raised toilet seat.
4. Healthy Diet: Maintain a balanced diet to support healing and overall health.
5. Avoid High-Impact Activities: Steer clear of activities that may strain the new knee joint, such as running and jumping.
6. Attend Follow-Up Appointments: Regular check-ups with your surgeon to monitor progress and address any concerns.

Conclusion

Knee replacement surgery is a highly effective solution for individuals suffering from severe knee joint damage. By replacing the damaged joint with a prosthesis, this procedure can significantly reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life. If you are experiencing debilitating knee pain and conservative treatments have not provided relief, knee replacement surgery with Professor Ali Ghoz may be the right option for you. Consult with Professor Ghoz to discuss your condition and develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs.