Knee replacement surgery

Knee replacement surgery is one of the most common joint replacement procedures. It is performed when the painful symptoms caused by the damaged knee joint cannot be controlled with non-surgical treatments. These treatments include: anti-inflammatory medication, joint supplements, weight loss, change in the activity level, using walking support etc. If these options fail to relieve pain you should consider the surgery.

During the knee replacement surgery, the surgeon removes the damaged joint lining, and replaces the joint surfaces with an implant. Although these implants are designed to provide the best, long-lasting result, they wear out over time.

The surgery

The surgery is performed using general anaesthesia. The surgeon removes the damaged cartilage and bone on the end of the thigh bone and the top of the shin bone. Then he or she replaces the removed joint surfaces with a metal and plastic implant.

After surgery

Patients usually stay in hospital for several days. It is normal to feel some pain after surgery, but it can normally be controlled with pain medication.

The success of the surgery greatly depends on the rehabilitation period following the surgery. Patients should start to work with a physical therapist right after the surgery. Foot and ankle movement is encouraged immediately following surgery. It not only helps to restore knee movement, but it also increases blood flow in the leg muscles and helps to prevent leg swelling and blood clots.

Patients are usually able to resume most of their normal activities within 3 to 6 weeks after the surgery.

Complications and risks

The risks of knee replacement surgery are similar to those of other operations: allergic reactions to anaesthesia, bleeding, infection, scarring, swelling, or bruising.

Additional risks of knee replacement surgery are: allergic reaction to the implant, blood vessel or nerve damage during the surgery, dislocation, stiffness or the loosening of the implant, and breakage of the prosthesis. The prosthetic knee joint may wear out over time. How long it will last depends on many factors, such as a patient's physical condition, body weight, activity level and the surgical technique.

You can avoid most complications by choosing the right surgeon and following pre- and postoperative instructions.