What is Total Knee Replacement?

Total knee replacement, also known as total knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to relieve pain and restore function in patients with severely damaged knee joints. This procedure involves removing the damaged surfaces of the knee joint and replacing them with artificial components, known as prostheses. Total knee replacement is typically performed on patients with advanced arthritis or severe knee injuries that have not responded to conservative treatments.

How is Total Knee Replacement Done?

1. Preoperative Assessment: A comprehensive evaluation, including medical history, physical examination, and imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI, is conducted to plan the surgery.
2. Anaesthesia: The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia or regional anaesthesia (spinal or epidural), ensuring the patient is pain-free during the surgery.
3. Incision: An incision is made over the knee to access the joint.
4. Removal of Damaged Tissue: The surgeon removes the damaged bone and cartilage from the surface of the knee joint.
5. Implantation of Prosthesis: The knee joint is replaced with a prosthesis consisting of a metal femoral component, a metal and plastic tibial component, and sometimes a plastic patellar component. The components are fixed to the ends of the femur (thigh bone), tibia (shin bone), and the back of the kneecap (patella) as needed.
6. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or staples, and a sterile dressing is applied.

Why is Total Knee Replacement Done?

Total knee replacement is performed to relieve chronic knee pain and improve joint function in patients with severe knee damage. It is particularly beneficial for individuals who:

• Suffer from advanced arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis).
• Experience significant pain and limited function despite conservative treatments such as medications, physical therapy, and injections.
• Have knee deformities, such as bowlegs or knock-knees, causing functional impairment.
• Wish to improve their quality of life and regain mobility.

Who Might Need Total Knee Replacement?

Total knee replacement is recommended for individuals who experience:

• Persistent knee pain that interferes with daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, and standing.
• Limited range of motion or stiffness in the knee.
• Knee pain that does not respond to non-surgical treatments like medications, physical therapy, or injections.
• Reduced quality of life due to knee joint problems.

Conditions Treated with Total Knee Replacement

• Osteoarthritis: Severe degeneration of the knee joint due to wear and tear.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: Chronic inflammation causing joint damage.
• Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Arthritis resulting from a previous knee injury.
• Knee Deformities: Conditions causing significant deformity and functional impairment.
• Avascular Necrosis: Bone death due to loss of blood supply to the knee.

Recovery Times

Recovery time after total knee replacement varies depending on the individual’s condition and adherence to rehabilitation. Generally:

• Hospital Stay: Patients usually 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 restore strength and mobility.
• Full Recovery: Most patients resume normal activities within 3 to 6 months, though full recovery can take up to a year.

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. Rest and Elevation: Keep the knee elevated and avoid strenuous activities to reduce swelling.
4. Ice Therapy: Apply ice packs to the knee to reduce pain and inflammation.
5. Healthy Diet: Maintain a balanced diet to support healing and overall health.
6. Monitor for Complications: Watch for signs of complications such as increased pain, swelling, or infection, and report them to your doctor promptly.

Conclusion

Total knee replacement 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, total knee replacement 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.