Traumatologue - Orthopédiste
Knee Replacement
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Knee Replacement Surgery
Knee replacement surgery is a highly effective solution for patients suffering from persistent knee pain. The success rate for this procedure is excellent, with over 95% of patients experiencing significant pain relief after knee replacement.
What Is Knee Replacement Surgery?
During knee replacement surgery, your orthopedic surgeon removes damaged bone and cartilage from the knee joint. Artificial components made of metal and medical-grade plastic replace the affected parts of the knee. This surgical intervention is widely recognized as one of the most successful procedures for managing chronic knee pain, with consistently favorable outcomes.
When Could You Need Knee Replacement Surgery?
The primary indication for knee replacement is chronic knee pain, often accompanied by mobility limitations. This persistent pain is frequently caused by osteoarthritis, a degenerative condition that gradually wears down the knee cartilage over time, resulting in joint stiffness, reduced range of motion, and difficulty performing simple daily activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, as well as experiencing discomfort when sitting in a chair and getting up.
Additionally, conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and post-inflammatory arthritis (which develops at the site of a previous injury) may necessitate knee replacement. Severe knee injuries can also require knee replacement.
While nonsurgical treatments such as physical therapy, exercise, and therapeutic injections that encompass: PRP, hyaluronic acid, or corticosteroids injections; can provide relief, knee replacement becomes the best option when conservative approaches prove ineffective or insufficient.
Patients of various ages can benefit from knee replacement, with the age of the majority of patients undergoing this surgical procedure falling between 50 to 80 years old.
The Knee Replacement Procedure
A total knee replacement restores the entire knee joint, addressing the following compartments:
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Medial Compartment (Inner Knee)
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Lateral Compartment (Outer Knee)
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Patellofemoral Compartment (Behind the Knee Cap)
During the surgery, your orthopedic surgeon will remove damaged cartilage and a minimal amount of bone from the joint surface. Following that, two essential components are then positioned:
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A femoral implant at the top of the knee.
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A tibial base plate at the bottom of the knee.
A polyethylene liner is inserted between the metal components, allowing for smooth movement and gliding within the knee joint.
For cases involving damage to only one knee compartment, a partial knee replacement surgery may be performed, restoring only the affected area.
Schedule an appointment today!
Your orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Errachid, is highly skilled in joint replacement surgeries and will do his very best to provide you with the highest care quality during and after your surgery.
If you’re suffering from chronic hip pain and considering hip joint replacement surgery, don’t hesitate! Call us now or book an appointment online today to learn if you’re a good candidate.
A: Recovery times can vary, but most patients can expect to start walking with assistance the day after surgery. The ability to participate in most activities typically takes 3 to 6 months. However, complete healing and the return to all activities may take up to a year.
A: Generally, patients can expect:
- Hospital stay: 1-3 days
- Walking with assistance: Within 1-2 days after surgery
- Return to light activities: 2-6 weeks after surgery
- Return to normal activities: 6-12 weeks after surgery
- Full recovery: Up to 6 months to a year
Your orthopedic surgeon will provide you with a personalized recovery plan based on your individual needs and progress.
A: There are two main types of knee replacement surgery:
- Total knee replacement: This involves replacing the entire knee joint, including the femoral component (the end of the thigh bone), the tibial component (the top of the shin bone), and the patellar component (the underside of the kneecap).
- Partial knee replacement: Also known as unicompartmental knee replacement, this involves replacing only the damaged compartment of the knee joint, while preserving the healthy parts. This procedure is suitable for patients with arthritis limited to one area of the knee.
A: Knee replacement surgery may be recommended for several conditions, including:
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Post-traumatic arthritis
- Knee deformities, such as severe bow-leggedness or knock-knees
- Certain knee tumors
A: Modern knee replacements are designed to last for many years. On average, knee replacements can last 15-20 years or longer, depending on factors such as the patient's activity level and weight.
A: While all surgeries involve some level of discomfort, pain management is a priority. You will receive medications to control pain during and after the procedure, and pain tends to decrease significantly within weeks.
A: Yes, physical therapy is a crucial part of the recovery process. It helps to strengthen the muscles around the new joint and improve flexibility. Therapy usually begins within a day after surgery and may continue for several months.
A: You can resume most daily activities and low-impact sports like swimming, cycling, and golfing. High-impact activities should be avoided to prolong the life of the knee joint.
A: Kneeling is possible after recovery, but it may be uncomfortable for some patients. Your orthopedic surgeon will provide specific recommendations based on your situation.
A: The best way to determine if you are a candidate is to consult with your orthopedic surgeon. Dr. Errachid will consider many factors to determine the suitability of this procedure for you, including the severity of your knee pain, its impact on your daily life, and your overall health.
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