March 29, 2024 3:10 am
Health Conditions

7 Things to know about Knee Replacement Surgery

Knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a common surgical procedure performed to treat severe knee pain and disability caused by conditions such as Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid arthritis, and Post-traumatic arthritis. If you’re considering knee replacement surgery, here are seven things you should know:

1. Knee replacement surgery is typically recommended when other treatments have failed

Knee replacement surgery is usually recommended when non-surgical treatments such as medication, physical therapy, and injections are no longer effective in relieving knee pain and improving mobility. Total knee replacement cost can vary depending on several factors, including the type of implant used, the surgeon’s fees, and the hospital or surgical centre where the procedure is performed.

2. There are different types of knee replacement surgery

There are several types of knee replacement surgery, including total knee replacement, partial knee replacement, and bilateral knee replacement. Total knee replacement is the most common type of knee replacement surgery and involves replacing the entire knee joint with an artificial joint made of metal, plastic, or ceramic components.

3. Knee replacement surgery can improve quality of life

Knee replacement surgery can significantly improve quality of life by reducing pain, improving mobility, and increasing overall function. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, more than 90% of people who undergo knee replacement surgery experience a significant reduction in knee pain, and an improvement in knee function.

4. Recovery time varies

Recovery time after knee replacement surgery varies depending on several factors, including the patient’s age, overall health, and the type of surgery performed. Generally, most people are able to return to normal activities within six to twelve weeks after surgery. Physical therapy is an important part of the recovery process and can help speed up the healing process, and improve the range of motion and strength.

5. Risks and complications are possible

As with any surgery, knee replacement surgery carries some risks and potential complications, including infection, blood clots, nerve damage, and implant failure. However, the risks of these complications can be minimised by choosing an experienced surgeon and carefully following post-operative instructions.

6. The cost of knee replacement can vary

The total knee replacement cost can vary depending on several factors, including the type of implant used, the surgeon’s fees, and the hospital or surgical centre where the procedure is performed. It’s important to check with your insurance provider to see what portion of the cost is covered and to work with your surgeon to develop a treatment plan that fits within your budget.

7. Lifestyle changes can help improve outcomes

In addition to following post-operative instructions, making certain lifestyle changes can help improve outcomes after knee replacement surgery. These include maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients, staying active, and avoiding activities that put excessive strain on the knee joint.

Knee replacement surgery is a common procedure that can signify ownficantly improve the quality of life for people with severe knee pain and disability. While there are risks and potential complications, these can be minimised by choosing an experienced surgeon and following post-operative instructions carefully. It’s also important to consider the total knee replacement cost and to work with your surgeon to develop a treatment plan that fits your budget. With proper care and rehabilitation, most people can expect significant improvement in knee pain and function after surgery.

It’s important to have realistic expectations about the outcome of knee replacement surgery. While most people experience significant improvement in knee pain and function after surgery, it may not completely eliminate all the pain or restore full function to the knee.

Before and After Surgery

Before surgery, your surgeon will likely recommend some pre-operative exercises or physical therapy to help strengthen the muscles around the knee joint and prepare your body for surgery. Following these recommendations can help improve outcomes.

After surgery, it’s important to follow the recommended post-operative instructions carefully, including taking any prescribed medications, attending physical therapy sessions, and avoiding certain activities as recommended by your surgeon. This can help reduce the risk of complications and speed up the healing process.

It’s also important to maintain regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your progress and ensure that your knee replacement is functioning properly.

Conclusion

While knee replacement surgery can significantly enhance the quality of life, it’s not a permanent solution. The lifespan of an implant can vary depending on several factors, and revision surgery may be required in the future. However, with proper care and maintenance, knee replacements can last for 15 years or more.

By keeping these factors in mind and working closely with your surgeon to develop a treatment plan that’s right for you, you can make an informed decision about knee replacement surgery and achieve the best possible outcomes.