Knee Arhtroplasty

Total Knee Replacement (TKR), also known as knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure in which the damaged or worn-out surfaces of the knee joint are removed and replaced with artificial components, known as prostheses. This procedure is typically recommended for individuals with severe knee pain or disability caused by conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or traumatic injury that do not respond to conservative treatments such as medication, physical therapy, or lifestyle changes.

Key Aspects of Total Knee Replacement

1. Indications:
– Severe osteoarthritis causing significant pain and impaired mobility.
– Rheumatoid arthritis with joint deformity and instability.
– Post-traumatic arthritis following injury to the knee joint.
– Failure of previous knee surgeries.

2. Procedure:
– Pre-operative Planning: Involves detailed imaging (X-rays, MRI) to assess the severity of the damage and plan the surgery.
– Anesthesia: General or spinal anesthesia is administered.
– Surgical Process: The surgeon makes an incision over the knee, removes the damaged cartilage and bone, and then positions the prosthetic components (femoral, tibial, and patellar implants) to recreate the joint’s surface.
– Closure: The incision is closed, and a drain may be placed to remove excess fluids.

3. Types of Implants:
– Cemented Prosthesis: Fixed to the bone with bone cement.
– Cementless Prosthesis: Designed to allow the bone to grow into the implant for fixation.
– Hybrid Prosthesis: Combination of cemented and cementless components.

4. Recovery:
– Post-operative Care: Involves pain management, wound care, and prevention of complications such as blood clots or infection.
– Physical Therapy: Essential for regaining strength and mobility, beginning within 24 hours after surgery.
– Rehabilitation: Usually takes several months, with gradual improvement in joint function and pain relief.

5. Outcomes:
– Most patients experience significant pain relief and improved function.
– The longevity of knee implants typically ranges from 15 to 20 years, depending on activity levels and overall health.

6. Risks and Complications:
– Infection, blood clots, implant loosening, and rare complications like nerve or vascular injury.
– Revision surgery may be required if the implant wears out or if complications arise.

Total Knee Replacement is a common and effective procedure, providing a new lease on life for many people suffering from debilitating knee pain.

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