What is knee replacement surgery?

Knee replacement surgery is regarded as a modern surgical procedure that can accurately be described as knee resurfacing. This procedure restores the weight bearing facade of the knee joint that is damaged, worn out, or diseased to relieve pain and movement disability. It is performed through the implant of an orthopedic metal and plastic component shaped as a joint so that the knee can move properly.

When the articular cartilage of the knee becomes damaged or worn out, it becomes painful and the patient finds it extremely hard to move the knee. The bones, rather than sliding over each other with the minimum of friction, rub and crush together. If an artificial prosthesis is surgically implanted, the patient will feel much less pain, possibly none, and his knee will move properly.

Replacement surgery in a damaged knee joint by placing an artificial prosthesis will alleviate pain and help better movement of the knee. Every year it is estimated over 600,000 knee replacement surgeries are carried out in the United with most patients being seniors over 65.

For most patients, a replacement knee surgical procedure will last for at least 15 to 20 years, especially if cared for properly and not put under too much strain. More than 90% of people who have total knee replacement surgery experience a dramatic decrease in knee pain and a significant improvement in their ability to perform common activities of daily living.

Reasons to perform knee replacement surgery

A Scottsdale knee replacement surgery is considered a routine operation and here are the most common reasons for the procedure:

·         Osteoarthritis - This type of arthritis is age related caused by the normal long wear and tear of the knee joint. The majority of patients are over 50; however, younger people may be affected.

·         Rheumatoid arthritis - also called inflammatory arthritis, occurs when the membrane surrounding the knee joint is inflamed and thick. This inflammation becomes chronic and will damage the cartilage causing soreness and stiffness.

·         Post-traumatic arthritis - this type of arthritis is due to a severe knee injury. When the bones around the knee break or the ligaments tear, this will affect the knee cartilage. Sometimes, surgery is the best option.

When is knee replacement surgery recommended?

Knee surgery is recommended for older people, although adults or teenagers of any age can be candidates for the procedure, since they are physically active and will more rapidly wear the joint out. The weight, gender, or age of the person is never a factor when considering knee replacement surgery. Whether or not to perform surgery is nearly always based on the severity of pain and degree of disability of the patient.

Prior to surgery, the patient will have to undergo a series of preparatory and diagnostic tests, which include checking blood count, how the blood clots, electrocardiograms, and checking urine. Surgery is usually performed either under general, spinal or epidural anesthetic. The surgeon, together with the anesthesiologist will usually determine on the day of the operation what type of anesthetic will be used.

The procedure itself takes approximately 1 to 2 hours. The orthopedic surgeon will remove the damaged cartilage and bone, and then position the new metal and (or) plastic implant to restore the alignment and function of the knee.