Knee Replacements

If you need a Knee Replacement, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.

What Are Knee Replacements?

Knee replacement, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure in which a damaged or diseased knee joint is replaced with an artificial joint, called a prosthesis. The aim of knee replacement surgery is to relieve pain, improve function, and restore mobility in individuals with severe knee arthritis or other conditions that have not responded to conservative treatments.

The knee replacement procedure typically involves the following steps:

1. Anesthesia: The patient is given either general anesthesia (puts the patient to sleep) or regional anesthesia (numbs the lower body) to ensure comfort during the surgery.
2. Incision: A surgical incision is made over the knee joint, typically on the front or side of the knee.
3. Bone Preparation: The damaged surfaces of the thigh bone (femur) and shin bone (tibia) are carefully shaped to accommodate the prosthetic components. The amount of bone removed depends on the specific type of knee replacement being performed.
4. Prosthesis Implantation: The artificial components are then placed. This usually involves attaching a metal component to the end of the femur, a metal or plastic component to the top of the tibia, and a plastic spacer between the two components to allow for smooth gliding motion.
5. Patellar Resurfacing (Optional): In some cases, the back surface of the kneecap (patella) may be resurfaced with a plastic component to improve joint function and reduce pain.
6. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or staples, and a sterile dressing is applied.

After knee replacement surgery, the patient will be closely monitored in the hospital for a few days. Physical therapy will begin soon after surgery to promote healing, restore knee range of motion, and strengthen the muscles around the knee joint.

Knee replacement can significantly improve quality of life, reduce pain, and restore function in individuals with severe knee joint damage. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with knee replacement, including infection, blood clots, bleeding, implant loosening, nerve or blood vessel damage, and limited improvement in symptoms.

It is important to consult with an orthopedic surgeon specializing in knee replacements to determine if knee replacement is the appropriate treatment option for your specific condition. The surgeon will evaluate your individual circumstances, review imaging studies, and provide personalized treatment recommendations.

If you would like to speak to an Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Specialist, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.