Knee Replacement

In knee replacement surgery (arthroplasty), a damaged, worn or diseased knee is replaced with an artificial joint. Knee replacement is a routine operation for knee pain when the knee joint has been severely damaged, most commonly by arthritis.

 

There are two main types of surgery, depending on the condition of the knee: total knee replacement and partial (half) knee replacement.

 

During knee replacement surgery, the worn surfaces at the end of the thighbone are removed using special instruments. The bone is then shaped to prepare for a new covering.

 

The top of the shinbone (tibia) is prepared in a similar way. The worn surface is removed and a new metal tray is placed on top of the remaining bone. This tray holds a hard plastic spacer that will become the new shock absorber between the smooth metal coverings. Your surgeon may also replace the back of the kneecap with a new plastic surface. These components can be fixed to the bone by either using bone cement or a "press fit" allowing your bone to grow into the coating on the prosthesis. Your surgeon will typically decide which type of fixation to use based on numerous factors including age, activity level, bone quality, and other associated medical conditions.

 

Near the end of your surgery, your surgeon will secure the new knee. When the implant is in position and all of the supporting muscles and ligaments are working well, your surgeon closes the incision with stitches or staples.

 

When your surgery is over, you will be taken to the recovery room. Generally, you can expect to be moved to your regular room within 1 to 3 hours after surgery.

 

Your doctor will work with you to determine how soon you will be able to bend and move your knee. Typically, this will be the same day as your surgery.

 

During your hospital stay, you'll begin rehabilitation therapy. Rehabilitation starts within a few hours after surgery and continues for three months or longer. During this time, you will learn how to safely use your new knee joint and return to your normal activities. The goals of rehab are to:

 

 

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