Total Knee Replacement
Total knee replacement is a surgical procedure where the worn out surfaces of the knee are resurfaced with metal and plastic components. Over time, the cartilage that cushions the bones can wear away, cause pain and discomfort, and make simple pleasures like walking and shopping unbearable.
Knee replacement surgery may be considered for those suffering from arthritic knee pain that severely limits the activities of daily living. In the United States, more than 600,000 knee replacements are performed each year. Most patients opting for a total knee replacement found improvement in pain, functional status and an overall quality of life.
Surgeons select the implant they believe is best for their patient’s needs based on a number of factors including age, activity level, the implant’s track record, and his or her comfort with the instruments associated with the particular implant.
Possible complications include:
- Blood clots in your leg veins
- Infection
- Implant loosening
- Fractures
- Nerve or blood vessel damage
- Knee stiffness
Your surgeon and healthcare team will take great care to minimize the risk of these and other complications. Keep in mind that complications are relatively rare, but they need to be understood by you and your family. Your surgeon will be happy to answer any questions.
It is now common for many patients to be able to go home from the hospital after two or three days. If you have both knees replaced at the same time, the stay can be a day or two longer. Of course, each patient is different, but the goal should be for you to recover in the comfort and privacy of your own home as soon as possible.
Some patients, particularly those who live alone, may need to spend a few days at a rehabilitation center or nursing home. Pain after surgery varies from person to person, and is not entirely predictable, but modern medications and improved anesthetic techniques greatly enhance our ability to control pain and discomfort after surgery.