What is a knee replacement surgery?
A knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a medical procedure in which a damaged or worn-out knee joint is replaced with an artificial joint, called a prosthesis. This surgical intervention is typically recommended for individuals who suffer from severe knee pain and impaired mobility due to conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or traumatic injuries.
The knee joint is a hinge joint that connects the thigh bone (femur) to the shinbone (tibia). In a knee replacement surgery, the damaged portions of these bones are removed and replaced with metal and plastic components that mimic the natural functioning of the knee joint. The surgery aims to alleviate pain, improve joint function, and enhance the overall quality of life for individuals with debilitating knee conditions.
Types of knee Replacement
Knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a medical procedure designed to relieve pain and restore function in severely damaged knee joints. There are several types of knee replacement implants, each with its unique characteristics. The two primary categories are total knee replacement (TKR) and partial knee replacement (PKR).
Total knee replacement surgery
Total knee replacement, or knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure where a damaged knee joint is replaced with an artificial joint, or prosthesis. This intervention is commonly performed to alleviate severe pain and impaired mobility caused by conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. The surgery involves removing damaged portions of the femur and tibia and replacing them with metal components, while a plastic spacer is inserted between to enable smooth joint movement. Total knee replacement aims to restore functionality and improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from debilitating knee conditions, allowing them to resume normal activities after a period of rehabilitation.
Partial knee replacement surgery
Unicompartmental, or partial, knee replacement is a surgical procedure addressing isolated damage in one compartment of the knee joint, often caused by conditions like osteoarthritis. Unlike total knee replacement, this procedure replaces only the damaged portion of the joint, preserving healthy tissues. It involves removing damaged cartilage and bone and replacing them with metal and plastic components, focusing on either the medial or lateral compartment. Unicompartmental knee replacement is considered when damage is limited, offering potential advantages such as quicker recovery, less bone removal, and more natural joint movement. It’s suitable for carefully selected patients with localized knee joint degeneration.
What is benifit of knee replacement surgery ?
Pain Relief
One of the primary goals of knee replacement surgery is to alleviate chronic and debilitating knee pain, allowing individuals to engage in daily activities with reduced discomfort.
Improved Mobility
The surgery aims to restore joint function and improve overall mobility, enabling patients to walk, climb stairs, and perform other movements more easily.
Enhanced Quality of Life
Reduced pain and improved mobility contribute to an enhanced quality of life, allowing individuals to participate in activities they may have had to avoid due to knee issues.
Correction of Deformities
Knee replacement surgery can address joint deformities caused by conditions like osteoarthritis, contributing to better alignment and stability.
Increased Independence
By improving mobility and reducing pain, knee replacement surgery can enhance a patient’s independence in performing daily tasks without assistance.
Long-Term Durability
Modern prosthetic materials and surgical techniques contribute to the long-term durability of knee replacements, providing lasting benefits for many patients.
Restoration of Joint Function
The artificial joint replaces damaged or diseased parts of the knee, restoring smoother joint function and allowing for a more natural range of motion.
Patient Satisfaction
Many individuals experience a high level of satisfaction with knee replacement surgery, reporting significant improvements in pain relief and functionality.