Overview

Knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, involves replacing damaged or worn-out components of the knee joint with artificial parts. These replacement parts are typically made from metal and plastic and are used to substitute damaged bone and cartilage. This surgery helps alleviate pain and improve knee function.
Before recommending knee replacement surgery, a surgeon evaluates the knee’s range of motion, strength, and stability. X-rays are used to assess the extent of the damage. Factors such as age, weight, activity level, knee size and shape, and overall health influence the choice of artificial joints and surgical techniques.

Why Knee Replacement Surgery Done?

The primary reason for knee replacement surgery is to relieve pain caused by arthritis. People who undergo this surgery often have difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or rising from chairs.
If only one section of the knee is damaged, a partial knee replacement may suffice. In this procedure, only the affected portion of the knee is replaced. If the entire knee joint is compromised, a total knee replacement is performed, which involves reshaping the ends of the thighbone and shinbone and resurfacing the joint. Artificial parts are inserted into the softer central portion of these bones.
When the knee’s ligaments cannot adequately hold the joint together, surgeons may use connected implants to stabilise the knee.

Risks Associated with Knee Replacement Surgery

• Blood clots: These are most common in the legs but can travel to the lungs, which may be life-threatening. Blood-thinning medications are typically prescribed to mitigate this risk.
• Nerve damage: Nerves around the surgical site may be injured, leading to numbness, weakness, or pain.
• Infection: Infections can occur at the incision site or deeper within the tissue. In severe cases, additional surgery may be required to treat the infection.
• Implant wear and loosening: Although knee implants are durable, they can wear out or loosen over time, potentially necessitating another surgery.

Preparing for Knee Replacement Surgery

Medications and Dietary Restrictions

Your medical team may recommend stopping specific medications or supplements before surgery. Additionally, you may need to avoid eating after midnight on the day of your procedure.

Preparing Your Home and Recovery Tools

For the weeks following surgery, you may need assistive devices such as crutches or a walker. To prepare for a safe and manageable recovery, consider:

• Setting up a living space on one floor to avoid stairs.
• Installing safety bars or secure handrails in bathrooms.
• Ensuring stairways have sturdy handrails.
• Use a stable chair with firm cushioning and a footstool for leg elevation.
• Obtaining a toilet seat riser with arms for easier access.
• Removing tripping hazards like loose rugs and cords.

What to Expect

When you arrive at the hospital, you’ll change into a gown and receive either a spinal block, which numbs the lower half of your body, or general anaesthesia to induce a sleep-like state. Numbing medications may also be administered around the joint to reduce post-surgery pain.

During the Procedure

The surgery typically lasts 1 to 2 hours. During the operation, the surgeon:

• Makes an incision over the knee.
• Removes damaged bone and cartilage, preserving healthy bone.
• Implants the artificial components into the thighbone, shinbone, and kneecap.

After the Procedure

After surgery, you’ll spend time in a recovery area before moving to your hospital room. Hospital stays vary based on individual needs, with many patients able to return home the same day.

To prevent blood clots, the following measures may be taken:

• Encouraging early movement, such as sitting up and walking with support shortly after surgery.
• Using elastic compression stockings or inflatable air sleeves to improve blood circulation in the legs.
• Prescribing blood thinners for several weeks post-surgery.
• ou’ll also be encouraged to perform breathing exercises and gradually increase your activity level. Physical therapy starts soon after surgery to restore knee function and continues at home or a dedicated facility.

Results of Knee Replacement Surgery

For most patients, knee replacement alleviates pain, enhances mobility, and improves overall quality of life. Modern knee replacements typically last 15 to 20 years.

After recovery, patients can participate in low-impact activities like walking, swimming, cycling, or golfing. However, high-impact activities, such as jogging or contact sports, should be avoided. Your healthcare provider can advise on safe ways to stay active post-surgery.