Total Knee Replacement: Meaning Types and Recovery

Total knee replacement surgery is a common but major surgical procedure to relieve pain and disability from osteoarthritis. It involves removing a diseased knee joint and replacing it with an artificial joint. The surgery is usually performed when other treatments, such as physical therapy, pain relief medication, and weight loss, have failed to relieve the pain and improve the function of the knee. Total knee replacement surgery is a big decision and should not be taken lightly. This blog post will explore what the surgery entails, the risks involved, and what you can expect in terms of recovery time and results.

What is Total Knee Replacement Surgery?

Total knee replacement surgery, also known as total knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure to replace the damaged or diseased joint surfaces of the knee with artificial joint components. The goal of the surgery is to relieve pain and improve knee function. 

The most common reason for having total knee replacement surgery is to relieve pain from arthritis. Arthritis is a degenerative disease that causes the cartilage in the joints to break down. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints.

Total knee replacement surgery involves replacing the damaged joint surfaces with artificial components called prostheses. The prostheses are made of materials such as metal and plastic. They are designed to mimic the function of the natural joint surfaces.

After total knee replacement surgery, you will be taken to a recovery room where you will be closely monitored. You will likely stay in the hospital for 3-5 days after your surgery. During this time, you will begin physical therapy to help you regain range of motion and strength in your leg. 

Most people who have total knee replacement surgery experience significant pain relief and improved mobility within 6 months of their surgery.

The Different Types of Knee Replacement Surgeries

Total knee replacement surgery (TKR) is a major operation to relieve pain and restore function in people with severe knee arthritis. The different types of TKR surgeries are often decided by the surgeon based on the patient’s individual case. Here we will provide an overview of the two most common types of TKR surgeries.

Partial knee replacement: In this procedure, only the damaged cartilage and bone are removed from the inner (medial) or outer (lateral) compartment of the knee joint. UKR is usually recommended for patients with early-stage osteoarthritis who have not yet developed damage to all three compartments of their knees.

Full knee replacement: In this procedure, all three compartments of the knee joint are replaced with artificial implants. The surgeon will also resurface the back side of the kneecap to provide a smooth gliding surface for the new joint. 

What to Expect After Total Knee Replacement Surgery?

You will be up and moving around as soon as possible after surgery. Physiotherapy will help you regain strength and motion in your knee. Most people stay in the hospital for three to five days after surgery.

You will need to take a lot of rest for the first few weeks after surgery. Avoid activities that put stress on your knee, such as stair climbing and jogging. As you heal, you can slowly return to your normal activities. It usually takes three to six months to fully recover from surgery.

Recovery Tips for Total Knee Replacement Surgery

1. Before your surgery, you and your doctor will develop a care plan. This plan may include physical therapy to help you regain strength and range of motion in your new joint.

2. You'll likely stay in the hospital for three to five days after your surgery. During this time, you'll begin physical therapy and start using crutches or a walker to get around.

3. Once you're home, you'll continue your physical therapy exercises as well as follow-up appointments with your surgeon. Most people take four to six weeks before they feel fully recovered. 

4. Follow your surgeon's orders and don't try to do too much too soon. Your new joint needs time to heal correctly. Overdoing it can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness.

5. Be sure to take it easy but keep moving. A little activity is good for recovery because it helps reduce swelling and keeps your joints flexible. Just listen to your body and don’t force yourself too hard.

Conclusion

In conclusion, total knee replacement surgery is a major operation that should not be taken lightly. It is important to do your research and consult with your doctor to see if this surgery is right for you. There are many factors to consider before making the decision to have this surgery, at Park Hospital Gurgaon you can find the best surgeons. They can help get an overview of the procedure and care plan. Before opting for the procedure make sure you have cleared all your doubts and concerns.