Knee replacement surgery is a type of procedure that involves the surgical removal and replacement of damaged or diseased parts of knee joints. It can be an effective way to relieve pain and improve mobility for those who have severely damaged knees, but it should not be viewed as a cure-all for knee problems.
While walking around, the knee acts as a supporting ligament that allows the leg muscles to work at full strength. When this ligament is injured or diseased, it can result in extreme pain and difficulty walking. The surgery requires the replacement of all or part of the damaged area with metal and plastic implants.
As time passes, additional surgeries may be required to replace worn-out implants. It is also possible that the damaged knee joints will continue to worsen even after surgery, resulting in further complications down the line. Doctors perform knee replacement surgery when conservative treatment options have failed to relieve pain or correct an impaired ability to move.
Issues That Require a Knee Replacement
A total knee replacement is recommended when the patient experiences significant damage to the joints, most commonly due to osteoarthritis. Other issues that may require a replacement treatment include rheumatoid arthritis and injuries resulting from sports or accidents. Even repetitive stress injuries can lead to correction problems through an artificial joint. Implants typically last for about twenty years, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, they may need to be replaced at an earlier or later time.
The main goal of knee replacement surgery is to restore mobility by reducing pain and improving function. The procedure can help patients live healthier lives, allowing them to return to many pre-injury activities.
What Are Knee Replacements Made From?
The replacement parts used in knee surgery include different materials depending on the hospital and the country it is located in. Typical implants include:
- Metal on plastic implant
- Metal ceramic combination implant
- Metal-backed cemented implant
- Metal-backed uncemented implant
Typically, metal implants are made from chromium and cobalt. Ceramic parts may be composed of alumina or zirconia.
The implant will be fitted to the size and shape of the patient's leg to function properly without damaging other tissues. Special tools are used to clean away damaged tissue from around the knee to keep healthy areas intact. These tools may include drills, grinders, and ultrasonic probes that help break up any stubborn bits of cartilage.
Next, the replacement part is attached to the bone and held in place with a type of cement that has been cast into the joint space. Some implant types allow for more natural movement than others, but they will ultimately reduce pain and improve function. The damaged cartilage where it was removed is also repaired with tools such as sutures, staples, or adhesives.
Recovering from Knee Replacement Surgery
The recovery process after knee replacement surgery will depend on the patient's age, health conditions, and the type of implant used. Patients can typically expect to stay in the hospital for about eight days following surgery, but they may return home sooner if their doctors decide that they don't need to remain hospitalized. This period will be followed by several weeks of recovery at home or assisted living facilities.
The first days after surgery are the most critical for patients. Recovery efforts focus on caring for the surgical site and teaching the patient how to manage pain. For instance, many people will initially require prescription medication to help them deal with any intense discomfort they experience.
During the first couple of weeks, the patient must obtain help from loved ones or caregivers to take their medications properly. It can take up to six weeks for patients to return to normal work and daily activities. Once they have returned home, many people will spend several more days completing various exercises designed to improve flexibility, strength, and balance.
Full recovery from knee replacement surgery may take up to a year. If individuals can do so, they can often avoid taking pain medications by this point in their treatment. This period is when patients gradually increase their physical activity levels as well.
Knee replacement surgery for arthritis patients is often considered a last resort after trying medications and other treatments that don't work. For people with disabling pain who cannot walk long distances or take care of responsibilities, knee replacement surgery can be the best option available.