What is Total Knee Replacement?

Total knee replacement is an outpatient procedure that removes damaged knee bone and cartilage and replaces it with metal and plastic components. The procedure is one of the most well-known and most effective in orthopedic surgery because it dramatically improves knee pain and quality of life. A board-certified anesthesiologist administers general anesthesia and pain medications to begin the procedure. After the patient is completely asleep and properly positioned, the following steps are performed:

• Incision and joint exposure. An incision is made below, around, and above the patella (kneecap). Muscles and soft tissues are retracted.
• Implant preparation. Damaged bone and cartilage is carefully removed. Trial implants are tried until the perfect size is found.
• Implants. Perfectly sized implants are placed and cemented over precisely cut knee bones.

The incision is carefully closed to prevent infection and ensure proper healing. Total procedure time is usually 1 ½ – 2 hours. The patient is brought to a private hospital room after the procedure. Physical therapy is started the day of surgery after the patient is comfortable and relaxed in their room. Total recovery time is usually 6 months or less.

What Does Total Knee Replacement Treat?

Arthritis is a chronic condition that destroys knee bone and cartilage. A total knee replacement may be recommended to treat severe osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis that does not respond to nonsurgical treatment. Symptoms that patients should be aware of are:

• Pain
• Stiffness
• Swelling

An early knee arthritis diagnosis reduces the chances of the condition becoming worse and requiring surgery. Patients who experience symptoms are encouraged to make an appointment with our team as soon as possible.