Overview

Total knee replacement, or total knee arthroplasty, is a surgery that replaces a damaged or worn-out knee joint with artificial parts. The knee joint is made up of the femur (thigh bone), tibia (shin bone), and patella (kneecap). During this procedure, metal and high-grade plastic implants are used to replace damaged cartilage and bone surfaces. There are different types of knee replacements, including traditional total knee replacement and less-invasive options. The main goal is to reduce pain, restore mobility, and improve the quality of life for people with severely damaged knee joints.

Why It's Done
Total knee replacement is performed when arthritis, an injury, or degenerative joint disease causes pain and stiffness that don't respond to medications, physical therapy, or injections. Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis are some of the most common causes. If knee damage makes it hard to do everyday things like walking, climbing stairs, or standing, surgery may be the best option. The goal is to relieve pain long-term and improve joint function.

What to Expect
Before surgery, patients have their joints evaluated with blood tests, physical exams, and imaging tests such as X-rays. The surgeon discusses the risks, benefits, and what to expect after surgery. Anaesthesia is given to the spine or the whole body during the procedure. A cut is made over the knee, and the damaged cartilage and bone are carefully removed. A plastic spacer is placed between the artificial metal parts attached to the femur and tibia to allow them to move smoothly. It is also possible to resurface the kneecap. Sutures or staples are used to close the cut. Patients are watched over in a recovery unit after surgery. Soon after the surgery, pain management, early mobilisation, and physical therapy start. The length of a hospital stay depends on how well the patient is recovering.

Recovery & Outlook
To get better, you need to stick with physical therapy to regain strength and range of motion. Most patients start walking with help within a few days and gradually return to their normal activities over the next few weeks. It could take three to six months for a full recovery. Most implants last 15 to 20 years, so total knee replacement works well. Patients usually feel a lot less pain, can move around better, and have a better quality of life with the right rehabilitation and follow-up care.