Knee Prosthesis

Knee Prosthesis

A knee prosthesis is a surgical solution developed for individuals who have lost their mobility due to damage or wear of the knee joint. This innovative implant functions similarly to a natural knee joint, providing patients with freedom of movement and pain relief. Here’s what you need to know about knee prostheses:

What is a Knee Prosthesis?

A knee prosthesis is a surgical implant used to restore the function of the knee joint. Typically made from metal and plastic, the prosthesis reconstructs the surfaces of the knee joint and enables movement. This helps to reduce pain and limitations caused by knee joint damage.

Types of Knee Prostheses

Knee prostheses can be classified into various types based on different surgical techniques and designs. Here are some commonly used types of knee prostheses:

• Total Knee Replacement (TKR): Total knee replacement involves the removal of all damaged tissues around the knee joint and the placement of a prosthesis made of metal and plastic. It may include components for the femur, tibia, and patella (kneecap), effectively reconstructing the knee joint. For more detailed information, please visit our Total Knee Replacement page.

• Partial Knee Replacement: Partial knee replacement is a surgical procedure that involves replacing only the damaged or worn portion of the knee joint with a prosthesis. This type of prosthesis is preferred in cases where only a part of the knee is damaged. Known as a partial knee prosthesis, this method preserves the healthy portions while replacing only the damaged section. This procedure allows for a less invasive surgery, potentially speeding up recovery and preserving the natural anatomy of the knee. For more detailed information, please visit our Partial Knee Replacement page.

• Robotic Knee Replacement: Robotic knee replacement utilizes robotic technology in surgical procedures to perform more precise, measurable, and customized prosthesis placements. This technology allows the surgeon to plan and execute the knee prosthesis surgery with greater precision. Robotic knee replacement surgery can help patients achieve faster recovery, less pain, and better functional outcomes. In this method, a prosthesis that is compatible with the patient's anatomical structure is selected for optimal performance during the surgical procedure. For more detailed information, please visit our Robotic Knee Replacement page.

• Revision Knee Replacement: Revision knee replacement involves the reconstruction or replacement of a previously implanted knee prosthesis. This procedure is performed to correct issues related to wear, loosening, infection, or other complications of the previously applied prosthesis. Revision knee replacement surgery is a complex procedure requiring expertise, usually performed by the original surgeons or their team. The goal is to restore the functionality of the previously implanted prosthesis, improving the patient's mobility and quality of life. For more detailed information, please visit our Revision Knee Replacement page.

• Hinged Knee Prosthesis: Hinged knee prosthesis is a surgical solution used for individuals who have lost mobility due to knee joint damage or disease. This type of prosthesis has a special design that includes a hinge mechanism to facilitate the movement of the knee joint. This mechanism mimics the bending and extension movements of the prosthesis, offering the patient a natural range of motion. Hinged knee prosthesis is especially preferred in patients with additional ligament or tendon damage to ensure joint stability. This prosthesis can help the patient reduce pain while performing daily activities. For more detailed information, please visit our Hinged Knee Prosthesis page.

Since each patient and condition is unique, it's essential to consult an orthopedic surgeon to determine the most appropriate type of knee prosthesis. The surgeon will evaluate the patient's specific situation to identify the best prosthetic option.

Who is Suitable for Knee Replacement Surgery?

Knee replacement surgery is a suitable option for individuals whose quality of life is negatively impacted due to knee joint disease or injury. However, this surgical procedure may not be appropriate for every patient. Here are some conditions in which knee replacement surgery may be indicated:

• Severe Knee Pain and Limited Mobility: Individuals experiencing severe pain and limited mobility due to knee joint disease or injury may be candidates for knee replacement surgery. This is particularly applicable to those with significant limitations in performing daily activities.

• Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is a condition resulting from the gradual wear and damage of cartilage tissue in the knee joint. Individuals with severe osteoarthritis can benefit from knee replacement surgery to reduce pain and regain mobility.

• Rheumatoid Arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its tissues. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis may be candidates for knee replacement surgery due to inflammation and damage in their knee joints.

• Traumatic Knee Injuries: Traumatic injuries to the knee joint, such as fractures, ligament strains, or meniscus tears, may require knee replacement surgery. Patients experiencing severe pain and mobility limitations from these injuries may find relief through prosthetic surgery.

• Failure of Other Treatment Options: When conservative treatment methods, such as physical therapy, medication, or injections, fail to control symptoms, knee replacement surgery may be considered.

To determine suitability for knee replacement surgery, a patient's medical history, symptoms, physical examination findings, and imaging test results are evaluated. Each patient should have a detailed discussion with their doctor about surgical options and treatment plans to identify the best treatment for their individual situation.

How Long Does Knee Replacement Surgery Take?

The duration of knee replacement surgery can vary based on several factors and may differ for each patient. However, it typically takes a few hours. Some factors that influence surgery duration include:

• Presence of Complications: The degree and type of damage in the knee joint due to the patient's condition or trauma can affect the complexity of the surgery. For instance, in cases of more extensive damage and deformity, the surgery may take longer.

• Surgical Technique: The surgical technique preferred by the surgical team also affects the duration. Different surgical approaches and prosthesis placement techniques may be employed. Some techniques may be quicker, while others may require more time.

• Patient Characteristics: The patient’s overall health, age, body mass index, and other medical conditions can also influence the surgery duration. Surgery may take longer in weaker or older patients.

• Complications: Unexpected complications can arise during surgery, which may prolong the surgery duration. However, experienced surgeons and surgical teams are prepared to handle such situations.

Generally, knee replacement surgery lasts approximately 1 to 3 hours. However, this duration can vary based on the patient's individual condition, the surgical team's experience, and the complexity of the surgery. You can ask your doctor about the expected duration of your surgery during your pre-operative consultation.

How is Knee Replacement Surgery Performed?

Knee replacement surgery is a surgical procedure that enhances the quality of life for individuals who have lost mobility due to knee joint disease or injury. This procedure involves removing damaged tissues from the knee joint and placing an artificial prosthesis. Here are the basic steps of knee replacement surgery:

1. Anesthesia: Prior to the surgery, patients are typically administered general anesthesia. This ensures the patient remains unconscious and pain-free during the procedure. An anesthesiologist evaluates the patient's suitability for anesthesia and formulates an appropriate anesthesia plan.

2. Incision: The surgical team makes an incision in the front of the knee. This incision provides access to the knee joint and facilitates placement of the prosthesis. The surgeon determines the incision size and location based on the patient's anatomical structure.

3. Removal of Damaged Tissues: The surgeon carefully removes the damaged tissues from the knee joint. This usually involves the femur (thigh bone), tibia (shin bone), and patella (kneecap) areas. If necessary, worn cartilage or bone spurs may also be excised.

4. Placement of the Prosthesis: The surgeon prepares the damaged joint surfaces and inserts the artificial prosthesis. The prosthesis, usually made of metal and plastic, can include components for the femur, tibia, and patella. The prosthesis is positioned and secured appropriately to the bones.

5. Closure of the Incision: After placing the prosthesis, the surgical team carefully closes the incision. Sutures and surgical bandages are used for closure. A specific recovery period is usually needed for complete healing and removal of stitches.

Knee replacement surgery typically lasts a few hours and initiates a significant recovery and rehabilitation process for the patient. In the post-operative period, patients engage in physical therapy and rehabilitation programs to learn how to use the knee prosthesis and regain muscle strength.

Recovery Process After Knee Replacement Surgery

The recovery process after knee replacement surgery is a critical period for patients to regain natural knee function and resume daily activities. The recovery process requires careful monitoring after surgery, physical therapy, and patient education. Here are the main points of the recovery process after knee replacement surgery:

• First Days After Surgery: In the initial days following the surgery, the patient is closely monitored in the hospital. The surgical area is checked, and pain management is provided. Physical therapists guide the patient on bed exercises and early mobilization.

• Discharge from the Hospital: Depending on the patient's condition, discharge usually occurs between 2 to 5 days post-surgery...