Total Knee Prosthesis

What is Total Knee Replacement?

Total knee replacement is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of damaged or worn tissues in the knee joint and the insertion of an artificial prosthesis. This procedure is performed to treat knee joint diseases, degenerative joint conditions, or pain and limited movement resulting from trauma.

The goal of total knee replacement is to improve the patient's quality of life, reduce pain, and restore joint function. After surgery, patients typically participate in physical therapy programs to regain muscle strength and accelerate their return to daily activities. This procedure is performed by specialized surgeons and may vary based on the patient's age, health status, and the complexity of the surgery. Total knee replacement is an effective surgical solution that can significantly improve patients' mobility and quality of life.

Who is Suitable for Total Knee Replacement?

Total knee replacement is generally considered and performed in the following situations:

• Degenerative Joint Disease (Osteoarthritis): Osteoarthritis is a condition characterized by the wear and tear of joint cartilage, leading to symptoms such as pain and stiffness in the joint. In this case, total knee replacement can be used to reduce pain and restore joint mobility.

• Rheumatoid Arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints. In severe cases of rheumatoid arthritis, total knee replacement may be an option to repair joint damage and alleviate pain.

• Joint Injuries: Serious joint damage can occur after knee fractures or other traumatic injuries. Total knee replacement may be necessary to regain joint function in such cases.

• Chronic Pain and Movement Limitations: Chronic pain and movement limitations in the knee joint can significantly affect a patient's quality of life. Total knee replacement can be a solution to reduce pain and enhance the patient's mobility.

Total knee replacement is usually considered when other treatment options have failed or when severe symptoms significantly impact the patient's quality of life. However, each patient's treatment plan is individualized, and doctors determine the most appropriate treatment based on the patient's specific situation.

How is Total Knee Replacement Surgery Performed?

Total knee replacement surgery typically involves the following steps:

1. Anesthesia: The surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia, rendering the patient unconscious and controlling pain.

2. Incision and Preparation: The surgeon makes an incision over the kneecap and exposes the damaged areas of the knee joint. Damaged bone and cartilage tissues are removed, and the joint surfaces are smoothed.

3. Prosthesis Insertion: The surgeon places a prosthesis made of metal or plastic components into the upper and lower parts of the knee joint. These prostheses aim to mimic joint movement and restore the knee's natural function.

4. Closure: After the prosthesis is inserted, the surgeon sutures the incision and closes the surgical site. Stitches may be absorbable or removable postoperatively.

5. Rehabilitation: After surgery, patients typically participate in physical therapy programs. These programs aim to regain muscle strength, increase joint mobility, and accelerate the process of returning to daily activities.

Total knee replacement surgery is a surgical procedure performed by specialized surgeons. Each patient's treatment plan is individualized, and the surgeon considers the patient's specific situation to determine the most suitable treatment. In the postoperative period, it is essential for patients to follow their doctor's recommendations for the recovery process.

Risks of Total Knee Replacement Surgery

Total knee replacement surgery, like any surgical intervention, carries certain risks. However, these risks are generally low and can often be minimized with appropriate surgical techniques, preventive measures, and proper follow-up care. Here are some potential risks associated with total knee replacement surgery:

• Infection: There is a risk of developing an infection after surgery. Infections are typically manageable with antibiotic treatment, but in severe cases, the prosthesis may need to be removed.

• Blood Clots: Blood clots may develop during the postoperative period. These clots can lead to serious complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism.

• Prosthesis Loosening or Dislocation: Over time, the prosthesis may loosen or dislocate. This can result in symptoms such as joint pain, instability, and loss of function. In cases of prosthesis dislocation, revision surgery is usually required.

• Prosthesis Wear: The components of the prosthesis may wear over time, leading to issues such as joint pain, fracture, and loosening. Revision surgery may be necessary in this situation.

• Nerve Damage: Nerve damage can occur during or after surgery, leading to symptoms such as numbness, weakness, or tingling.

• Anesthesia Complications: Complications related to anesthesia can arise during or after surgery. These may include allergic reactions, drops in blood pressure, difficulty breathing, and heart problems.

Most of these risks can be minimized with proper surgical planning, careful surgical techniques, and appropriate rehabilitation. It is essential to discuss the risks and benefits in detail with your doctor before making a decision. In any case, your doctor can provide more specific information regarding the personal risk profile for your surgery.

Postoperative Care After Total Knee Replacement

After total knee replacement surgery, several important points to keep in mind include:

• Recovery Process: The recovery process after surgery is crucial. You should take medications as prescribed by your doctor and not neglect wound care.

• Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation: It is important to participate in physical therapy and rehabilitation programs. These programs aim to regain muscle strength, increase joint mobility, and expedite the return to daily activities.

• Activity Limitations: There may be restrictions on certain activities after surgery. You should gradually move as advised by your doctor and avoid heavy lifting, sudden movements, and high-impact activities.

• Nutrition: Adopting healthy eating habits can support the recovery process. It's important to ensure adequate protein, vitamin, and mineral intake.

• Signs of Infection: Monitoring for signs of infection postoperatively is crucial. If you experience symptoms such as redness, swelling, excessive pain, fever, or discharge, you should contact your doctor immediately.

• Regular Check-Ups: It is essential to attend regular follow-up appointments with your doctor after surgery. Your doctor will assess the status of your prosthesis and identify any issues early if necessary.

By paying attention to these points, you can achieve a quicker and more successful recovery process after total knee replacement surgery. However, if you have any concerns or issues, do not hesitate to consult your doctor.

Exercise Guide After Total Knee Replacement

The period following total knee replacement surgery can be supported by appropriate exercises for a faster and healthier recovery process. Here is an exercise guide after total knee replacement:

• Walking Exercises: In the postoperative period, slow-paced walks increase the knee joint's mobility and promote circulation. You can start with short distances on flat surfaces and gradually increase both distance and speed.

• Knee Flexion Exercises: Knee flexion exercises help increase the range of motion in the knee joint. While lying on your back or sitting, you can bend and straighten your knee as advised by your physiotherapist after surgery.

• Knee Extension Exercises: Knee extension exercises strengthen the knee joint. While lying on your back or sitting, press your heels into the bed or floor to straighten your knee.

• Knee Lifting Exercises: Knee lifting exercises help strengthen the muscles around the knee joint. While lying on your back or sitting, you can lift one knee while bending it and keeping the other straight.

• Strengthening Exercises: Strengthening the muscles around the knee is essential after knee replacement surgery. Knee lifts, leg extensions, and leg curls can help increase muscle strength.

• Flexibility Exercises: Flexibility exercises can improve the flexibility of the knee joint and enhance the range of motion. You can engage in exercises such as knee bends, leg stretches, and yoga.

It's essential to perform warm-up and cool-down routines before and after each exercise session. Additionally, exercises should be done at low intensity and in a controlled manner, avoiding excessive strain. You can customize your exercise program by discussing it with your doctor or physiotherapist.

Cost of Total Knee Replacement Surgery

To obtain information about the cost of total knee replacement surgery and conduct a detailed cost analysis, please contact us. The cost of total knee replacement surgery in 2024 may vary depending on several factors, including the patient's health status, the type of prosthesis to be used, the experience of the surgeon performing the surgery, and the location of the healthcare facility.

To learn more about our health services and prices related to total knee replacement surgery, please reach out to us. Our expert team will assist you in presenting the most suitable pricing options and determining the cost of your surgery. Please feel free to contact us via our WhatsApp line for further information or to schedule an appointment.

We are here to provide you with the best healthcare services.