Unilateral Knee replacement - conventional

Total Knee Replacement (TKR), also known as total knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure in which a damaged or diseased knee joint is replaced with an artificial implant. It is commonly performed on patients with severe knee arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, when pain, stiffness, and mobility issues cannot be managed with non-surgical treatments. The procedure aims to relieve pain, restore function, and improve the quality of life for patients with advanced knee joint damage.

Key Points:
- **Procedure**: In total knee replacement surgery, the damaged cartilage and bone from the surface of the knee joint are removed. The surgeon then resurfaces the knee with metal and plastic components, creating a new joint that mimics the natural movement of the knee. These components typically consist of a femoral (thigh bone) component, a tibial (shin bone) component, and a patellar (kneecap) component.

- **Indications**: Total knee replacement is recommended for patients with severe arthritis (such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis) that affects the entire knee joint, causing significant pain, stiffness, and disability. Candidates for TKR typically experience pain during normal activities such as walking or climbing stairs and have limited mobility.

- **Benefits**:
  - **Pain Relief**: One of the main goals of total knee replacement is to alleviate chronic knee pain, allowing patients to perform daily activities with more comfort.
  - **Improved Mobility**: The surgery helps restore knee function, allowing patients to regain flexibility and movement.
  - **Long-lasting Results**: Modern knee implants can last 15-20 years or more, providing long-term relief and improved quality of life for patients.

- **Recovery**: Recovery from total knee replacement involves a hospital stay of 1-3 days, followed by rehabilitation. Physical therapy is crucial for restoring knee strength, flexibility, and function. Most patients are able to resume normal activities like walking within 6-12 weeks, though full recovery can take 6 months to a year. Low-impact activities, such as swimming and biking, are generally encouraged after recovery.

- **Outcomes**: TKR is highly effective in reducing pain and improving function in patients with advanced knee arthritis. More than 90% of patients experience significant improvement in pain, mobility, and quality of life. The success rate is high, with most patients returning to their daily activities and low-impact sports.

- **Risks**: As with any major surgery, there are risks associated with total knee replacement, including infection, blood clots, implant wear or loosening, stiffness, and in rare cases, nerve or blood vessel damage. Revision surgery may be needed if the implant wears out or becomes damaged over time.

Total Knee Replacement is a reliable and effective solution for patients with severe knee arthritis, offering significant pain relief, improved mobility, and long-term results. It allows patients to return to their daily activities and enjoy a better quality of life.

Dr Darshan Angadi - Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon and Medical Director will guide you in every step of your treatment and recovery after your total knee replacement to ensure a good outcome