Knee Arthroplasty: What You Need to Know Before Surgery
Knee arthroplasty is a revolutionary minimally invasive method, the purpose of which is to replace a worn knee joint with prostheses (implants), in order to restore the patient’s mobility. This procedure can significantly improve the quality of life of patients suffering from severe orthopaedic conditions, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
Knee Conditions
Before describing the knee arthroplasty procedure in detail, let us first examine the main conditions that can affect the knee:
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition that causes wear of the articular cartilage. Gradually, the cartilage deteriorates, resulting in impaired knee function and causing severe pain and stiffness.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes inflammation and destruction of the joints. The knee is one of the areas most commonly affected by this condition, causing pain, swelling, stiffness and loss of mobility.
Post-Traumatic Arthritis
Previous fractures or injuries in the knee area may cause post-traumatic arthritis even at a younger age.
The Role of Knee Arthroplasty
Knee arthroplasty is an effective solution for patients suffering from knee conditions who do not respond to conservative treatment. During the procedure, the surgeon removes the damaged part of the knee joint and replaces it with an artificial prosthesis, which immediately restores knee function and eliminates pain.
Types of Knee Arthroplasty
There are various types of knee arthroplasty. The type of arthroplasty that is appropriate for each case depends on various factors. The main types of knee arthroplasty are:
- Total knee arthroplasty: During this procedure, all three compartments of the knee are replaced.
- Partial knee arthroplasty (unicompartmental): This procedure involves replacing only the affected compartment of the knee.
- Revision knee arthroplasty: This is a corrective procedure in which some or all components of the original prosthesis are removed and replaced with new ones.
Preparation for Knee Arthroplasty
Preparation for knee arthroplasty is vital for the successful outcome of the procedure and the restoration of the patient’s mobility. The steps involved in knee arthroplasty include:
Consultation with the Orthopaedic Surgeon
The first step is, of course, an appointment with a specialised orthopaedic surgeon. The orthopaedic surgeon will assess the condition of the knee and inform you about the procedure and what to expect from it.
Tests
Before knee arthroplasty, you will need to undergo various tests to assess your general state of health, such as blood tests, imaging tests and cardiological examinations.
Preparing Your Home
Before the operation, you should prepare your home so that it is appropriately arranged for the recovery period. This may include reorganising spaces for greater accessibility, as well as obtaining essential supplies if you live alone. You should also obtain some form of walking aid (such as a walker or crutches) for the first few days after surgery.
The Knee Arthroplasty Procedure
Knee arthroplasty is performed under spinal anaesthesia (without general anaesthesia) and through a 10–15 cm incision at the front of the knee. The procedure includes the following steps:
Removal of the Damaged Joint
The surgeon removes the damaged part of the knee.
Placement of an Artificial Prosthesis
An artificial prosthesis is placed in the position of the damaged knee. This implant takes over the functions of the natural knee and restores joint mobility. It is fully compatible with the human body.
Closure of the Incision
Finally, the surgeon closes the incision with sutures and the recovery period begins.
Recovery After Knee Arthroplasty
Recovery after knee arthroplasty includes a period of recuperation and rehabilitation, as the patient gradually recovers from the surgical procedure. During this period, patients must follow the instructions of their orthopaedic surgeon in order to achieve a smooth recovery with excellent results.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy and a home exercise programme are an important part of recovery after knee arthroplasty. The patient should undergo a number of physiotherapy sessions as well as perform exercises independently at home, which will help restore knee mobility, strengthen the muscles and restore balance. From the first hours after surgery, patients are mobilised with full weight-bearing on the new knee.
Incision Care
During recovery, patients must pay particular attention to caring for the surgical incision. This includes following instructions for changing dressings, protecting the incision from injury and limiting activities that may affect the wound. Daily ice therapy is recommended to reduce swelling and decrease any normal postoperative pain.
Frequently asked questions
How long is recovery after a knee replacement?
Full recovery can take several months or longer, depending on your age and general health. Patients start walking with crutches or a walking frame soon after the operation, and after about 6 weeks they can try walking without an aid and drive again, once the doctor confirms they are fit to do so.
When does physiotherapy start after a knee replacement?
Mobilisation starts very soon after the operation, with the help of physiotherapists, so that the patient can walk and go home early. A home exercise programme follows, and doing it regularly from the first weeks helps long-term strength and movement of the knee and helps prevent complications.
How long does a knee replacement last?
Most knee replacements last for about 25 years. Depending on your age at the time of the operation, another operation (revision) may be needed later in life, but this is not common.
Can older people have a knee replacement?
There is no absolute age limit. The decision is based on the patient’s pain and disability rather than age, and most patients who have the operation are aged 50 to 80. Each patient is assessed individually, as the risk of complications depends on age and general health.
Regaining Mobility
Knee arthroplasty can help restore mobility and quality of life in patients suffering from severe orthopaedic conditions of the knee. With appropriate preparation, surgery and recovery, patients can regain their mobility and enjoy a life without pain and limitations.
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