Knee Replacement
What is knee Replacement Surgery?
The knee joint is the largest and the most complex joint of the body. It provides us with support and mobility for movements of our daily living like walking, sitting, squatting, turning, running, driving, and dancing. Due to Arthritis, the knee joint becomes damaged leading to the knee becoming stiff and swollen. It is only then that we realize what freedom of movement means to us.
When a person is suffering from end stage arthritis which cannot be helped through oral medication, knee replacement surgery becomes the only option.
Total knee replacement is an operation in which we do not remove the whole joint, only the damaged surface of thigh bone (femur) and shin bone (tibia) are removed. Often, the underside of the knee cap (patella) is also removed and these surfaces are replaced with artificial parts. It is an operation where one is resurfacing the damaged knee joint, as is done in capping a damaged tooth.
Options for knee replacement surgery are:
Primary Total Knee Replacement Surgery: Unilateral / Bilateral same sitting.
Symptoms: Pain in knee, difficulty walking and climbing stairs, deformity in knees such as valgus deformity (knock knees) or varus deformity
(bow legs).
Primary Uni-Compartmental Knee Replacement Surgery: Unilateral / Bilateral same sitting.
Symptoms: Early stage arthritis causing damage to one part of the knee.
Patient Specific Instrument Knee Replacement Surgery:
This advanced technique allows customization of the operation specially designed for you and results in a more accurate fitting of the artificial joint. The operation becomes simpler and easier, the recovery is faster and the long-term success will undoubtedly be better.
Revision Knee Replacement Surgery:
- Loosening of prosthesis, infected prosthesis, or traumatic fall leading to fracture.
- Revision surgery is more demanding and requires use of a specialized complex implants.
- Trabecular metal technology: Replaces lost or damaged bone with trabecular metal which is structurally similar to bone.
- At IO hospital, revision knee surgery is conducted on a regular basis with excellent long-term results.
Under the leadership of Dr. Ahmed Galal, IO hospital of Trauma and Orthopaedics is one of the best hospitals in Cairo and pan Egypt for joint replacement surgery which includes knee replacement, hip replacement, shoulder replacement and elbow replacement. Dr.Ahmed Galal is also one of the only doctors who does complicated revision joint replacement surgery and is considered one of the best in the field. At IO hospital of Trauma & Orthopaedics, results for knee replacement surgery are the best in class..
Understanding Knee Replacement Surgery
When various therapies like physical therapy,medicines and injections fail to ease severe knee pain, a knee replacement operation is often advised. Osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide, is the most frequent cause of knee replacement surgery. This ailment causes the cartilage in the knee joint to wear down over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving the knee.
During a knee replacement procedure, the damaged knee joint components are removed and swapped out for an artificial metal and plastic joint. Patients may move their knee more freely and painlessly because of this revolutionary joint, which is made to replicate the knee’s natural motion.
Benefits of Knee Replacement Surgery
- Surgery for a knee replacement can greatly lessen or perhaps completely cure persistent knee discomfort.
- This can enhance a patient’s quality of life and enable them to carry out common tasks like walking, using the stairs, and standing for extended periods of time without experiencing discomfort.
- The ability to enhance knee function is yet another advantage of knee replacement surgery. Patients who have knee replacement surgery often have a wider range of motion and easier knee movement than they did before surgery.
- They may be able to engage in activities that were previously challenging or impossible as a result.
What are some of the risks related to knee replacement surgery?
Knee replacement surgery has some hazards, just like any other medical operation.However, by selecting a qualified and experienced surgeon, carefully adhering to pre- and post-operative instructions, and attending all follow-up visits, these risks can be reduced.
About the Recovery Process after the Knee Replacement Surgery
- Usually, it takes several weeks to several months for patients to recover following knee replacement surgery. To assist them in restoring strength and mobility in their knee joint during this period, patients will need to participate in physical therapy sessions.
- Patients should carefully follow their surgeon’s recommendations throughout the healing phase to prevent problems and advance healing.
- This can entail staying away from particular motions or activities, taking painkillers as directed, and showing up to all follow-up meetings with their surgeon.
What routine tasks should patients avoid while they are recovering from Knee Replacement Surgery?
Patients should refrain from specific activities while recovering after knee replacement surgery to reduce the risk of problems and accelerate healing. During the course of their rehab, patients should refrain from the following common activities:
- High-impact pursuits
- twisting or turning
- enduring prolonged standing or sitting
- arduous Activities
- Driving
Wrapping Up:
For those with persistent knee discomfort, Knee Replacement Surgeon perform a routine operation that can considerably enhance quality of life. Although there are certain dangers associated with the operation, for the majority of individuals, the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. If you’re thinking about having a knee replacement, it’s essential to speak with a qualified orthopedic surgeon to find out if the procedure is correct for you and to create a personalized treatment plan.