Knee Replacement

Knee arthroplasty, or known by its layman’s term as knee replacement surgery, is a type of surgery done to alleviate the pain and perils posed by a damaged knee. It is also done to make your knees back in good shape once again. The operation involves removing the damaged part of the knee (usually a bone or cartilage) and replacing it with prosthesis or artificial parts that can be made from tough plastic/polymers to high-quality metal alloys.

This surgery is commonly done to individuals around 60 and above, which is the age that usually shows signs of osteoarthritis that can damage one’s knees. But it is not limited for those who reached their senior years; some who experience conditions or injuries involving the knee like injuries, hemophilia, or gout can also undergo this kind operation.

You can also undergo a partial knee replacement which is typical for younger ones wherein the artificial joint of your knee after ten years will be redone to avoid it from being affected by wear and tear especially if the one who undergoes the surgery are into activities that require excessive use of their likes in sports.

Knee surgery is the last option offered by a physician if using steroids doesn’t lessen the pain on your knees nor allow you to move properly.

Types

Currently, there are two types of knee replacement:

  • The prosthesis will only do partial knee Replacement – a single area of your knee joint, and the process is much smaller with a short recovery period.
  • Total knee replacement – here, both sides of the knee joint will be replaced through major surgery.

Symptoms

Those afflicted by the following are suggested to undergo knee surgery, especially if their medication is not improving their knee’s function and mobility:

  • Severe knee pain that may lead to swelling and stiffness of the knee joint.
  • Knee pain that interferes with your day to day task and even affects your sleep.
  • Impaired mobility which can lead some into depression

Diagnosis

Before undergoing knee replacement, your physician will first assess your knees’ overall condition, such as its current mobility and strength. X-ray is also done to have a general view of the damage incurred on your knees, whether it needs a total or partial knee surgery.  The type of prosthesis and the technique that your physician will use in operation depends on your age, weight, the size of your knee, and whether you are into high-impact activities.

Treatment

Pain relievers are given after your surgery, which is helpful once the effect of the anesthesia subsides.  Medication for swelling may also be provided, and you may start walking with crutches for the next couple of days before you can finally walk normally. A physiotherapist’s help is also needed to exercise your newly replaced joint and return the strength of your knees once more. It may take up to 6 weeks before you can fully recover from the surgery and do your usual activities without walking aid.

Related Articles

TETRALOGY OF FALLOT

Overview and FactsTypes and SymptomsDiagnosis & MedicationsOverview and Facts Tetralogy of Fallot is a congenital heart defect that affects the [...]

TRICHINOSIS

Overview and FactsTypes and SymptomsDiagnosis & MedicationsOverview and Facts Trichinosis, also known as trichinellosis, is a parasitic infection caused by [...]

TRIGEMINAL NEURALGIA

Overview and FactsTypes and SymptomsDiagnosis & MedicationsOverview and Facts Trigeminal neuralgia is a neurological condition characterized by severe facial pain. [...]