Total knee replacement: procedures, risks, etc. • hello healthy

Definition

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is inflammation or damage to one or more joints. The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis, a condition when joints gradually become worn and torn. Several other types of arthritis are related to arthritis. Arthritis wears away the cartilage that covers the joint surface, causing the bone underneath to be damaged. This causes pain and stiffness in the joints.

When do I need to have a total knee replacement?

This surgery is an option for patients whose knee joints have been damaged by a progressive type of arthritis, trauma, or a rare joint disease. The most common reason for knee replacement surgery is acute osteoarthritis of the knee. Regardless of the cause of joint damage, increased pain, stiffness, and restriction of movement, patients should consider this surgery. The decision is not easy because it requires a thorough understanding of the benefits as well as the risks of surgery.

Precautions & warnings

What should I know before having a total knee replacement?

More than 90% of people who undergo this surgery experience a dramatic reduction in knee pain and a significant increase in the ability to perform daily activities. However, you may not be able to move as freely as before you developed arthritis. Symptoms of knee damage can actually be relieved by taking painkillers such as paracetamol, and anti-inflammatory painkillers, and by taking supplements. Consult your doctor further before you take supplements. Canes can be used to help you walk. Artificial knees can wear out over time.

Are there alternatives to surgery?

Canes can be used to help you walk. In addition, you can wear elastic knee support on your knees to make them feel stronger. Regular moderate exercise can help reduce stiffness. Steroid injections into the hip joint can relieve pain and stiffness. All of these alternative measures become less effective as the arthritis condition worsens.

Process

What should I do before undergoing a total knee replacement?

In the preparation stage for surgery, make sure you tell your doctor about your health condition, any medications you are taking, or any allergies you have. The anesthetist will explain the anesthesia procedure and give further instructions. Make sure you follow all the doctor's instructions including the prohibition of eating and drinking before surgery. You will also need some home modifications to support the recovery process. Discuss with your doctor for further instructions. In general, you are required to fast for six hours before the surgery is carried out. However, you may be allowed to drink beverages such as coffee a few hours before the surgery.

What is the total knee replacement process?

Various anesthetic techniques may be used in this procedure. The operation usually takes one hour to 90 minutes. The surgeon will make an incision in the front of the knee and remove the damaged joint. Then, the doctor will insert an artificial knee joint made of metal, plastic, ceramic, or a combination of these materials. Using acrylic cement or a special coating, the replacement knee can remain attached to the bone.

What should I do after having had a total knee replacement?

After having surgery, you are allowed to go home after 3 to 7 days. For several weeks, you will need to use crutches or a cane to walk. Regular exercise has also been shown to speed up the healing process. But before deciding to exercise, you should ask a doctor for advice. Most people show good progress during their recovery period. The pain is reduced and the patient can move more actively than before even though basically, the artificial knee is not as comfortable as the real knee. Avoid kneeling activities and they usually make your knees uncomfortable.

Complications

What complications can occur?

Every surgical procedure has its own risks, including a total knee replacement. The surgeon will explain all kinds of risks that may occur after surgery. Common complications that can occur after surgery are the aftereffects of anesthesia, excessive bleeding, or blood clots in deep veins (deep vein thrombosis or DVT).

Patients who undergo this operation have the potential to experience complications:

the bone splits when the replacement knee is inserted

nerve damage

damage to blood vessels

ligament or tendon damage

infection in the knee

stretchable replacement knee

dislocation

knee comfort gradually decreases

there is severe pain, stiffness and loss of ability to move the arms and hands (complex regional pain syndrome).

Discuss your problem thoroughly with the orthopedic surgeon before undergoing surgery.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.