Knee replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, is a common solution for individuals facing severe knee pain or mobility issues. The procedure involves replacing all or part of your knee joint with a prosthesis made of metal and plastic. If you’ve been experiencing joint pain, stiffness, or difficulty moving your knee, this surgery might be the answer you’ve been looking for.
What is Knee Replacement Surgery?
During knee replacement surgery, a surgeon removes the damaged parts of your knee joint and replaces them with artificial components, creating a new knee joint that functions just like a natural one. The artificial joint, or prosthesis, is designed to restore mobility, reduce pain, and improve overall quality of life.
Knee replacements can be categorized into two types: total and partial.
Types of Knee Replacement
1. Total Knee Replacement
Total Knee replacement is considered the most common type of knee replacement surgery. Your surgeon will replace all three areas of the knee:
The inside (medial)
The outside (lateral)
The area under the kneecap (patellofemoral)
A total knee replacement is typically recommended for individuals suffering from severe arthritis or extensive damage across the knee joint.
2. Partial Knee Replacement
In cases where only one or two areas of the knee are damaged, a partial knee replacement may be sufficient. This procedure focuses on replacing only the affected part of the knee, leaving the rest intact. It's often recommended for younger individuals who have experienced knee trauma or injury.
When is a Knee Replacement Necessary?
Knee replacement surgery is typically recommended when nonsurgical treatments—such as medications, physical therapy, or injections—fail to alleviate symptoms. Common symptoms that might lead to surgery include:
Severe joint pain that affects daily activities.
Stiffness and swelling that doesn’t go away.
Limited mobility, making walking or standing difficult.
Arthritis is the leading cause of knee problems that require replacement. Osteoarthritis, in particular, breaks down cartilage and causes bone-to-bone friction, leading to pain and immobility. Rheumatoid arthritis, though less common, can also lead to joint damage requiring a knee replacement. In rare cases, a traumatic knee injury, such as a fracture from a car accident or sports injury, may lead to post-traumatic arthritis and require surgical intervention.
Preparing for Knee Replacement Surgery
Before your surgery, your healthcare provider and surgeon will guide you through several preparatory steps to ensure you’re ready for the procedure.
These may include:
Physical exams to check your overall health.
Blood tests and imaging exams like X-rays or MRIs to assess the knee.
Heart and dental exams to minimize the risk of infections and ensure heart health.
Medication review, where your surgeon may ask you to stop taking certain medications or supplements.
Your surgeon will also advise you to stop eating or drinking 12 hours before the surgery to prevent any complications during anesthesia.
What Happens During Knee Replacement Surgery?
On the day of surgery, an anesthesiologist will administer anesthesia to numb your body and ensure you don’t feel pain. The surgery itself typically lasts between one to two hours. During this time, your surgeon will:
Remove the damaged cartilage and bone from the knee joint.
Insert the prosthetic joint, which mimics the natural structure and function of your original knee.
Place a plastic spacer to provide the smooth cushion that healthy cartilage once did.
If needed, reshape your kneecap (patella) to fit the prosthesis.
Post-Surgery and Recovery
After surgery, you’ll be moved to a recovery room where a medical team will monitor your vital signs and ensure you wake up from anesthesia without complications. Some people are able to go home the same day, but others may need to stay overnight for observation. Your surgeon will give you a personalized recovery plan, which may include pain management, physical therapy, and activity restrictions to ensure proper healing.
Equipment you may require
There are numerous medical equipment you may require after getting surgery, like:
What Does a Knee Replacement Look Like?
The prosthetic knee joint is designed to closely resemble your natural knee in both appearance and function. Instead of bone and cartilage, the prosthetic is made from metal and plastic, providing the stability and movement needed for everyday activities.
Long-term Outlook
Knee replacement surgery is highly successful and has helped millions of people regain mobility and improve their quality of life. With proper post-surgical care and rehabilitation, most patients can resume normal activities within a few months, and the new joint can last for 15 to 20 years.
If knee pain or mobility issues are limiting your lifestyle, a knee replacement might offer the relief you need. Consult with your healthcare provider to explore your options and take the first step towards a pain-free future.
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