The Benefits of Knee Arthroplasty for a Better Quality of Life
Knee arthroplasty is a surgical procedure performed to replace the damaged bones of the knee joint with artificial implants. This procedure is usually necessary for patients suffering from osteoarthritis, post-traumatic arthritis or other degenerative conditions of the knee.
The benefits of knee arthroplasty are numerous, as it can significantly improve patients’ quality of life, allowing them to regain mobility, relieve pain and return to their daily activities.
Conditions Treated with Knee Arthroplasty
Knee arthroplasty is an effective treatment option for many knee conditions. The main conditions treated with knee arthroplasty are:
1. Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a pathological condition that causes deterioration of the knee joint. The surfaces of the bones within the joint rub against each other, causing pain, swelling and restricted movement. Knee arthroplasty can replace the damaged surfaces with new-generation artificial implants that are compatible with the human body, thereby improving knee function and reducing pain.
2. Post-Traumatic Arthritis
Post-traumatic arthritis is a form of arthritis caused by an injury to the knee, such as after a fracture. The damaged surfaces of the knee can cause pain, inflammation and stiffness. Knee arthroplasty replaces the degenerated part with an artificial implant, restoring knee function.
3. Rheumatoid Arthritis and Inflammatory Arthritides
Certain inflammatory arthritides, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can cause inflammation and subsequent deterioration of the articular surfaces, usually followed by deformity of the knee. Arthroplasty can improve knee function and relieve pain in patients experiencing these problems.
Surgeon’s Experience
Dr Andreas Leonidou is an experienced orthopaedic surgeon specialising in knee arthroplasty. He has more than 14 years of continuous salaried experience abroad and has performed a large number of knee arthroplasty procedures. Dr Leonidou has acquired specialised knowledge and experience in minimally invasive knee arthroplasty, which allows patients to recover rapidly and return immediately to their daily activities.
Preoperative Preparation
Before knee arthroplasty, the patient is thoroughly informed by the Doctor about the procedure. A preoperative assessment is then carried out, including blood tests, a chest X-ray and an electrocardiogram. The anaesthesiologist will examine the patient and provide instructions regarding whether or not to take medications before surgery and the required fasting period prior to the procedure.
Hospital Admission and Anaesthesia
The patient is admitted to the hospital on the day of the operation. The specialised anaesthesiologist will administer a combination of regional and local anaesthesia. Knee arthroplasty takes approximately 60-90 minutes, depending on the complexity of each case.
Recovery after Knee Arthroplasty
After knee arthroplasty, the patient returns to the hospital ward. There, with the assistance of the nursing staff, the patient will be encouraged to move the knee immediately. Initially, the patient will need to use a walking aid for a short period of time. The patient does not have a urinary catheter, analgesia devices or drains. Minimally invasive – fast-track knee arthroplasty is associated with less postoperative pain and faster recovery.
Pain Relief and Improved Mobility
Knee arthroplasty provides definitive pain relief and improves knee function. Patients who undergo knee arthroplasty regain mobility and quickly return to their daily activities. Rehabilitation includes physiotherapy and a series of exercises that the patient must follow after the operation.
Lifespan of Knee Arthroplasty
The lifespan of knee arthroplasty depends on many factors, such as correct placement of the implants and patient care after surgery. Knee arthroplasty usually lasts 15-20 years.
Cost of Knee Arthroplasty
The cost of knee arthroplasty depends on many factors, such as the severity of each case and the materials – techniques that need to be used. The cost includes the arthroplasty implant, hospitalisation expenses and the surgical team’s fee. Patients are responsible for the difference after the EOPYY contribution or are covered by their private insurance, in accordance with the terms of their insurance policy.
Frequently asked questions
Is it normal for the knee to swell after a knee replacement?
Some swelling in the first weeks is common. Keeping your leg raised as much as possible, avoiding standing for long periods and moving your foot and ankle often all help. If the swelling increases or comes with redness or fever, tell your doctor straight away.
When can I drive after a knee replacement?
Usually no sooner than 6 weeks after a total knee replacement or 3 weeks after a partial one, and only once your doctor confirms that you are fit to drive.
When can I go back to work after a knee replacement?
Most everyday activities can usually be resumed within 3 to 6 weeks, while returning to work is usually after about 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the type of work. For the first 3 months, avoid heavy household tasks such as vacuuming or carrying shopping.
Conclusions
Knee arthroplasty is an effective procedure that significantly improves the quality of life of patients suffering from degenerative knee conditions. With this procedure, patients can regain mobility, obtain relief from pain and return to their daily activities. With the experience and expertise of an experienced orthopaedic surgeon, knee arthroplasty is a safe and effective solution for definitive relief from pain and stiffness.
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