Total Knee Replacement
Total knee replacement (arthroplasty) is a surgical procedure to replace a damaged knee joint with artificial components. It's one of the most successful procedures in orthopedics for treating severe knee arthritis.
When It's Recommended
Indications for this procedure
- Severe knee arthritis causing significant pain
- Knee deformity affecting daily activities
- Failed conservative treatment options
- Significant reduction in quality of life
- Limited mobility due to knee problems
How It's Performed
The procedure explained
The surgery involves removing damaged cartilage and bone from the thighbone, shinbone, and kneecap, and replacing it with an artificial joint made of metal alloys, high-grade plastics, and polymers. The procedure typically takes 1-2 hours under general or spinal anesthesia.
Recovery Timeline
What to expect during recovery
Immediate Post-Op (Days 1-3)
What You Can Do
- Breathing exercises
- Ankle pumps and leg exercises
- Standing and walking with assistance
- Pain management
What to Avoid
- No bending knee beyond 90 degrees
- Weight-bearing as tolerated with walker
- Use of continuous passive motion machine
Early Recovery (Weeks 1-6)
What You Can Do
- Home physical therapy exercises
- Gradual increase in walking distance
- Light household activities
- Scar care
What to Avoid
- Avoid high-impact activities
- No driving until cleared by surgeon
- Avoid kneeling or squatting
- Use assistive devices as recommended
Intermediate Recovery (Weeks 6-12)
What You Can Do
- Outpatient physical therapy
- Progressive strengthening exercises
- Return to most daily activities
- Swimming and stationary cycling
What to Avoid
- Continue avoiding high-impact sports
- No jumping or running
- Gradual return to work
Long-term Recovery (3-6 months)
What You Can Do
- Full return to normal activities
- Low-impact exercises like golf, dancing
- Maximum strength and function achieved
- Independent living
What to Avoid
- Permanent avoidance of high-impact activities
- Avoid contact sports
- Regular follow-up appointments
Risks & Complications
Important considerations
- Infection (1-2% risk)
- Blood clots
- Implant loosening or wear
- Nerve or blood vessel injury
- Stiffness or limited range of motion
- Persistent pain (rare)
All surgical procedures carry some risk. Your surgeon will discuss these in detail during consultation and take measures to minimize complications.
Alternative Treatments
Other options to consider
- Partial knee replacement (for localized arthritis)
- Arthroscopic surgery for mechanical issues
- Continued conservative management
- Osteotomy (for younger patients with limited arthritis)
- Corticosteroid or viscosupplementation injections
Important Notes:
- Recovery times vary by individual and condition severity
- Follow your surgeon's specific post-operative instructions
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments
- Report any unusual symptoms or concerns immediately