Overview
A knee replacement surgery is a major surgery where the worn-out natural knee joint is amputated and replaced with a metal or plastic artificial knee joint (prosthesis).
The surgery is performed in an ambulatory outpatient facility or a hospital. After the surgery, you will require extensive physical therapy exercises for rehabilitation.
Surgery is recommended when non-steroidal treatments like over-the-counter medications, steroid injections, or physical therapy have been exhausted to manage the pain, swelling, or discomfort in the affected knee joint.
How painful is knee replacement surgery?
Knee replacement is a big surgery and some pain and discomfort are expected after the surgery. However, with the advancement of new technologies like robotic-assisted surgery, recovery is faster and less painful.
The pain will be more during the first few days which will gradually decrease with time and pain medications tailored to your specific requirements. The pain and discomfort will significantly decrease after a few weeks.
What is the lifespan of knee replacement?
Most knee replacement surgeries are expected to last 15 to 25 years with proper follow-up care.
Once you have undergone a knee replacement, follow instructions regarding daily activities. You are expected to avoid high-impact activities that can put pressure on your knee joint.
What are the advantages of knee replacement surgery?
Knee replacement surgery improves your overall quality of life, provides you relief from intense pain and discomfort, and helps in recovering your normal range of motion.
Here are some of the advantages of knee replacement surgery:
Provides relief from pain
One of the best outcomes of knee replacement surgery is that it substantially reduces the continues intense pain in the knee joints. It is one of the most effective procedures when the damage to the knee is extensive and cannot be improved by non-surgical treatments like medications, steroid treatments, etc.
Improves range of motion
Meniscus tears can block normal knee movements and mobility. A successful knee surgery brings back your normal range of motion and knee movements after the knee is completely healed. For most people, complete healing can be within three to six months. Once you regain your mobility, there is no restriction to your movements and you can pursue your normal daily activities as usual.
Fast recovery
Nowadays, with the advancement of technology, several less-invasive procedures involve less scarring and incisions and people can recover quickly after the surgery. The surgeries are also performed in outpatient facilities and patients can go home the same day with the help of a walking aid like crutches.
Minimal scarring
Minimally-invasive procedures involve improved latest technologies with smaller or keyhole incisions. The procedures offer less scarring and a better cosmetic appearance. You can feel less pain and regain knee functions quicker compared to traditional open surgeries.
Lower risks of infections
Minimally invasive procedures with smaller incisions expose fewer internal tissues which ensures that there are low risks of infections.
Stop your suffering NOW
Don't just jump into a surgery because your doctor is advising you to go for it. Consult our doctors to know if you need a surgery at all. Rest assured, we WON'T recommend you surgery unless it's the last resort.
What are the disadvantages of knee surgery?
Knee replacement surgery has certain disadvantages.
Require additional surgery
A knee joint replacement surgery cannot last forever. The prosthesis or artificial knee joint may wear out with time and you may need additional surgery. The prosthesis may wear out due to increased body weight, high-impact sports, or excessive physical activity.
Complications due to anesthesia
Some patients may develop anesthetic problems especially older people. They may develop complications like cognitive dysfunction or breathing problems.
Dislocation
The artificial knee joint may dislocate or become loose and move from its original place. This will require additional surgery.
Leg lengths may differ
In some cases, people may complain that the length of the knee has changed after the operation. This especially occurs when people get operated for a knock-knee or a bow-knee. However, many doctors believe that this is just an illusion and not a reality.
Knee infections
Infection to the artificial joint, surrounding muscles, or ligaments can develop into a serious ailment. The condition is initially treated with antibiotics but in severe cases of infections, the artificial knee is replaced.
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
DVT occurs when blood clots develop in the deep veins, typically in the lower part of the body like the legs. This can be serious if the clot travels and blocks the blood flow causing pulmonary embolism.
Unhappy with surgery results
Knee replacement surgery may not guarantee 100% satisfaction. The procedure is complex and your artificial knee joint may not feel like your natural knee.
Active commitment to recovery
Since knee replacement surgery is a major procedure, you need to properly follow the instructions and perform physical therapy exercises as instructed by your trainer. A lack of proper commitment can lead to inadequate recovery and outcome.
Damage to nerves and tendons
During the procedure, there is a small risk of damage to the nerves, tendons, and ligaments that support the knee. This can cause numbness, restricted movements, instability, tingling sensations, etc.
