Knee Replacement - Types, Benefits, and Risks

There are other treatment options that may alleviate chronic knee pain and restricted knee mobility, such as physiotherapy or steroid injections. However, if these treatments have failed to provide relief, knee replacement may be the only remaining option.

For patients with severe pain, stiffness, and immobilization in their knee joint arising out of degenerative arthritis or osteoarthritis, or for those recovering from injury, knee replacement is often the recommended surgical procedure to relieve discomfort.


For people with severe knee pain that does not respond to conservative, non-operative treatments such as weight loss, activity modifications, and anti-inflammatory medications or cortisone injections, total knee replacement may only provide temporary relief.


In total knee arthroplasty, the surgeon replaces the severely affected part(s) of the knee with artificial metal or plastic devices called prostheses.


Types


When the knee is severely damaged, worn out, or diseased, it can be replaced either partially or totally.

Total Knee Replacement (TKR) is a surgical procedure performed to replace all three parts of the knee: the inside, outside, and front of the knee.


In a total knee replacement, the surgeon removes damaged cartilage and bone on the surface of your knee joint and replaces them with an artificial implant that functions as a normal knee.


Partial knee replacement (PKR), a minimally invasive surgical procedure, may be considered if the pain is present in only one of the knee's three compartments. When you have this procedure, the surgeon replaces only the single affected knee compartment visible under the kneecap with an implant made of metal and plastic.


Benefits


A total knee replacement can greatly reduce knee pain, improve muscle strength, and correct deformities.


After surgery, you can return to your normal life activities with a healthy new knee.


It can significantly improve the quality of life with knee joint movement, reducing pain and improving flexibility.


After knee replacement surgery, you will probably be able to carry out household chores such as dusting and washing up.


The knee is a complex joint that can be vulnerable to instability, disability, and limited mobility.


After surgery, your knee will be less painful and more mobile. You'll be able to perform low-impact activities such as walking upstairs and getting in and out of a car without the use of support.


Risks


Although most knee replacement patients do not experience serious complications, there are risks associated with the surgery. 


These complications and risks include:


Blood clots in the veins of the leg (DVT)

A pulmonary embolism is a likelihood for those in certain occupations.

Excessive bleeding and scarring at the site of incision

Damage to nearby blood vessels, bones, or nerves can result from the implants.

Primary infection may not be obvious, as well as a superficial infection.

Adverse reactions to anesthesia are not uncommon.

There is a risk of loosening or fracture in the bone around the replaced joint during or after the surgery if failure/loosening of the knee implant occurs.


There are many possible post-surgery complications, so it is vital to educate yourself about knee replacement surgery before undergoing the procedure. If you research your options and find a skilled surgeon for the procedure, most knee replacement surgeries are performed successfully and go without major complications. If your new knee is cared for properly, it can last for many years.


Reference Links: http://EzineArticles.com/7108882


Related Post:


Benefits of Robot Assisted Knee Replacement

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