Knee replacement

Knee replacement, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure to replace the weight-bearing surfaces of the knee joint to relieve pain and disability. It is most commonly performed for osteoarthritis, and also for other knee diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis.

File:Knee arthroplasty due to a chondrosarcoma.jpg

Knee arthroplasty due to a chondrosarcoma

Indications

Knee replacement surgery is typically necessary when the knee joint is worn or damaged to the extent that your mobility is reduced and you experience pain even while resting. The most common reason for knee replacement surgery is to relieve severe pain caused by osteoarthritis. People who need knee replacement surgery usually have problems walking, climbing stairs, and getting in and out of chairs.

Procedure

In a total knee replacement, the damaged surfaces of the knee joint are removed and replaced with metal and plastic parts. The procedure involves cutting away damaged bone and cartilage from your thighbone, shinbone and kneecap and replacing it with an artificial joint made of metal alloys, high-grade plastics and polymers.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, knee replacement surgery carries risks. These include infection, blood clots in the leg vein or lungs, heart attack, stroke, nerve damage and complications from anesthesia.

Recovery

Recovery from knee replacement surgery takes time and involves a significant period of physical rehabilitation. The success of the surgery depends on the rehabilitation process, which includes physical therapy and exercises to regain strength and mobility in the knee.

See Also

• Orthopedic surgery
• Arthritis
• Physical therapy

References

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