Total knee replacement
Dr. Somesh Deb

Total 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.

How painful is a total knee replacement?

Although it's uncommon, a small percentage of patients continue to have chronic knee pain after knee replacement surgery. ... For most people, knee replacement significantly improves mobility and relieves knee pain. But in some patients, the pain persists after surgery.

How long does it take to recover from a knee replacement?

Timeline for Knee Replacement Surgery Recovery Most patients are able to care for themselves and resume normal daily activities within 6 weeks and drive within 3 to 6 weeks. It may take 4 to 6 months or up to an entire year to fully recover and realize total benefits of knee replacement surgery.

Is the patella replaced in a total knee replacement?

The procedure is an alternative to total knee replacement for patients whose damaged bone and cartilage is limited to the underside of the patella (kneecap) and the channel-like groove in the femur (thighbone) that the patella rests in. ... There are a number of treatments for knee osteoarthritis.

What happens to ligaments with total knee replacement?

A new total knee replacement that saves all of the ligaments can make a person's knee feel and move just like the original. During a traditional total knee replacement, the surgeon must remove the "island" of bone to which the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) are attached.

Can I stay alone after total knee replacement?

Orthopedics. Most patients, even if they live alone, can safely go directly home from the hospital after hip or knee replacement surgery, according to a recent study. ... "Patients living alone had a safe and manageable recovery when discharged directly home after total joint arthroplasty," wrote the lead author, Andrew N.

What can you not do after knee replacement?

You shouldn't downhill ski or play contact sports such as football and soccer. In general, avoid sports that require jerking, twisting, pulling, or running. You should be able to do lower-impact activities, such as hiking, gardening, swimming, playing tennis, and golfing.

Can the body reject a knee replacement?

Knee implant rejection is extremely rare. People may confuse it with infection, but the two are different complications. Implant rejection, or metal hypersensitivity, happens when metal in the implant triggers a reaction in the patient's body. This can be an allergic reaction or an autoimmune response.

How do you sit on the toilet after knee surgery?

Getting Up and Down From a Toilet: Back up to the toilet. Reach back for the armrests/raised toilet seat/seat. Slide your operated leg slightly forward and lower yourself slowly onto the toilet. To stand, use a grab bar or place your hand at the middle of the center bar of the walker.