Knee Replacement Surgery

Knee Replacement Surgery

Knee Replacement (Knee Arthroplasty)

The knee joint is a made up of the bottom of the thigh bone or femur, the top of the shin bone or the tibia, and the knee cap or the patella. The ends of the bone are covered with a smooth, cushioning layer called cartilage. The cartilage is what allows the bones to glide smoothly. Arthritis develops when the cartilage wears and the articulating surfaces are no longer able to move smoothly. This can result in a variety of symptoms from stiffness, catching or clicking sensations, limited range of motion, swelling, deformity, and/or persistent pain.

There are surgical and non-surgical options for treatment to discuss with your doctor. Determining factors include the grade, or extent, of the arthritis, symptoms, and overall health status. Non-surgical options range from physical therapy, injection therapy, medications, activity, and lifestyle modifications.

Surgical options most frequently include a knee replacement, or total knee arthroplasty. You and your doctor will discuss the type of knee replacement you will have, as there are different implants, or prosthesis, for knee replacement (animation video).

After your procedure you will likely spend a few days in the hospital. Patients are then free to return home or to a rehabilitation center if further assistance is required.  Physical therapy will play a key role after surgery for your continued recovery. If you and your doctor decide knee replacement is the option for you, the goal is to improve your quality of life and resume activities you enjoy most.