Total knee replacement surgery has recently become a familiar and successful orthopedic surgery. A knee joint (posterior or anterior cruciate ligament) is replaced with an artificial material (metal, ceramic, or plastic) to lower relative perioperative morbidity.
Studies show an increased surgery risk in women compared to men due to lowered calcium levels and other essential minerals necessary for maintaining healthy functioning of the knees post-menopausal stage. Through these elective procedures, the prevalence of arthritis and related joint problems with age became a major factor supporting these surgeries’ application at a relatively high knee replacement surgery cost.
Knee replacement surgery is recommended for patients whose knee joints are damaged by any disease related to joints, trauma, osteoarthritis, or joint deformities. Whatever the reason for the damage, the excruciating pain and stiffness of the knees leave patients unable to perform day-to-day activities.
An orthopedic surgeon reviews the patient’s� medical history. An x-ray and physical examination tests are conducted before suggesting knee replacement surgery as the best option to resolve the pain. There are many surgery packages online from which the patient can choose, following the doctor’s advice.
The basic steps followed in knee replacement surgery are: Along with a small portion of the underlying bone, injured cartilage portions at the femur and tibia ends are removed. Metal implants are positioned to recreate the joint’s surface by cementing or press-fitting into the bone. The kneecap, or the lower portion of the patella, is cut and resurfaced with a plastic button. Some surgeons may or may not follow this step as part of the procedure, depending on the patient’s age and condition. A medical-grade plastic spacer is lodged between the metal components to create an even drifting surface.
Risks related to the failure of knee replacement surgery include Blood clots in the knee and leg regions that might move back to the lungs causing a pulmonary embolism, which can, in turn, result in chest pain, shock, or shortness of breath. Side effects of this surgery can also cause minor problems like urinary tract infection, nausea, vomiting, chronic knee pain, stiffness, and joint bleeding. Anesthesia administered during this surgery may damage the functioning of crucial organs of the body like the heart or kidney, or liver.
Physical therapy is a vital rehabilitation area after the knee replacement treatment is complete. While knee replacement solves the intensive knee pain problem in most cases, repair and recovery are crucial in getting the patient back to a normal lifestyle, resuming the daily routine, minimizing the long-term effects, and offering quick healing during the surgery.
The patient can try to stand and walk with the help of artificial devices like crutches or canes. With physiotherapeutic assistance, the patient can climb stairs with improved flexion and strength before discharge. It is suggested not to get involved in high-impact activities like high-intensity cycling, skiing, football, running, and aerobics until complete healing occurs. Pain management, blood clot prevention, and physical therapy can support a positive replacement therapy and help extend the longevity of knee implants.
