Knee replacement, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure in which a damaged or diseased knee joint is replaced with an artificial implant. It is commonly performed in people suffering from severe knee pain or dysfunction, usually due to arthritis (such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis), injury, or other conditions that cause significant wear and tear on the knee joint.
Types of Knee Replacement:
- Total Knee Replacement (TKR): This is the most common form. Both the femoral (thigh) bone and the tibial (shin) bone, as well as the kneecap (patella), are replaced with artificial components.
- Partial Knee Replacement (PKR): Only one part of the knee joint is replaced, usually if the damage is confined to a specific area of the knee.
- Bilateral Knee Replacement: Both knees are replaced in a single procedure, either at the same time or in two stages.
Reasons for Knee Replacement:
- Osteoarthritis: This is the most common reason, where the cartilage in the knee wears down, leading to pain and stiffness.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disease that can lead to joint damage.
- Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Arthritis that develops after a knee injury.
- Avascular Necrosis: The death of bone tissue due to a lack of blood flow.
- Deformities: Severe misalignment or deformity in the knee joint.
Procedure:
- Pre-surgery: The surgeon will evaluate the knee’s condition, typically through physical exams, X-rays, and MRIs.
- Surgical Process: The surgery typically takes about 1-2 hours. The damaged portions of the knee are removed, and the artificial parts are fitted and secured.
- Post-surgery: The recovery period can take several months. Early recovery involves pain management, physical therapy, and regaining movement in the knee.
Recovery and Rehabilitation:
- Hospital Stay: Usually, patients stay in the hospital for 1 to 3 days following the surgery.
- Physical Therapy: A critical part of recovery. Exercises help improve strength and flexibility.
- Pain Management: Most patients experience pain and swelling post-surgery, which can be managed through medications and rest.
- Return to Activity: It may take 6 months to a year to fully recover. Most patients are able to return to daily activities, but high-impact activities like running or jumping may be discouraged.
Risks and Complications:
While knee replacement surgery is generally safe, like any surgery, it carries some risks, including:
- Infection
- Blood clots
- Implant wear or failure over time
- Nerve damage
- Stiffness or instability in the joint
