How to Get a Knee Replacement

Medical technology is continually evolving, making it possible to repair many parts of the body when they no longer function correctly. Knee replacement surgery is one such example. Through knee replacement surgery it is now possible to replace the knee joint when it is no longer functioning effectively.

Purpose

Knee replacement surgery, which is also known as knee arthoplasty, can be an effective treatment for a knee that has been damaged either by injury or arthritis. When the knee is damaged it can be difficult for an individual to perform even simply daily activities like climbing stairs or walking. Pain may even be experienced while resting. When medications are no longer effective for treating pain, a knee replacement surgery may be necessary. Knee arthoplasty can make it possible for individuals with knee damage to enjoy greater freedom of movement with less pain.

Preparation

Prior to the surgery, patients will meet with an orthopedic surgeon who will discuss the procedure in detail, including possible complications and risks and what the patient can expect from the surgery. A medical evaluation will typically be performed several weeks prior to the procedure in order to assess the patient’s overall health and to identify any conditions that might interfere with the success of the procedure. A series of tests may also be performed prior to the surgery, including urine and blood tests.

The patient’s leg and skin will need to be prepared in order to limit the risk of irritation or infection. In order for the procedure to be performed successfully, the leg should not have any chronic swelling.

The physician may also advise the patient not to take certain medications prior to the surgery in order to prevent dangerous blood thinning. The physician will advise the patient regarding which medications should be avoided prior to the procedure.

Along with medical evaluations, social planning will also need to be handled in advance of the procedure as the patient will need to use either crutches or a walker following the surgery. The patient may need assistance with bathing, shopping, cooking and other tasks. Safety bars may also need to be installed in the patient’s home in order to provide additional protection in the weeks following the surgery.

Procedure

The procedure will begin with the patient being placed under general anesthesia. An eight to twelve inch incision is then placed in the front of the knee. The damaged portion of the joint will then be removed from the bones and the surfaces of the bone will be shaped in order to hold the artificial joint. The artificial joint will then be attached to the thigh bone, knee cap and shin with a special material. The artificial parts that form the joint will then rely on the ligaments and muscles that surround the new joint for function and support.

New advancements in the field of orthopedics have led to MIS or minimally invasive surgery. The primary feature of this type of procedure is that it allows physicians to use specialized instruments and techniques to perform the surgery without making a large incision. With MIS knee replacement surgery, a smaller incision is made. This incision is usually between three and five inches; which is significantly smaller than the standard incision. The smaller incision results in less trauma to the tissue. This type of procedure may also result in less pain and a smaller amount of recovery time following the procedure.

Recovery Time

Most patients will experience an average hospital stay of between three and five days following their procedure. Typically, patients are able to stay and begin moving about the day following the procedure. The assistance of a walking device such as crutches, a walker or a cane may be needed until the knee is able to support the patient’s full weight. Within about a month following the procedure, most patients will experience a dramatic improvement in range of motion and pain.

After about six weeks following the procedure, the patient is usually able to begin walking comfortably with only minor assistance. Muscle strength will be restored through the assistance of physical therapy. Therapy may last between one and two months, depending on the patient’s progress. Patients should take care not to twist or pivot the knee following surgery for at least six weeks. Kneeling and squatting should also be avoided as well. The knee should also be kept as straight as possible when lying in bed.

Side Effects

Following the procedure, patients will typically experience some pain that will begin to diminish in the days following the procedure. Pain may be treated with medication. Swelling may also be common, which will also begin to diminish over time.

Other possible risks of the procedure include bleeding, blood clots, stiffening and loosening of the prosthesis.

Cost

The average cost for knee replacement surgery is about $32,000, but will vary based on the exact technique that is used and the material that is used. Standard knee replacement surgery is typically covered by most insurance plans; however, it is important for prospective candidates to check with their particular healthcare plans to be certain.