Types of Knee Replacement Surgery

Knee replacements can be total or partial. If the knee is damaged by arthritis, replacing part of the joint may relieve pain. Next, the knee joint supplier will share with you.

Total knee replacement (TKR)

The procedure involves the replacement of both sides of the knee joint. This is the most common procedure.

The surgery lasts 1 to 3 hours. The individual will have less pain and better mobility, but there will be scar tissue, which may make it difficult to move and bend the knee.

Partial knee replacement (PKR):

A partial replacement replaces only one side of the knee. Fewer bones are removed, so the incision is smaller, but it does not last longer than the total replacement time.

PKR is indicated for people who have damaged only part of the knee. Post-operative recovery is more immediate, with less blood loss and a lower risk of infection and blood clots.

There is usually a shorter hospital stay and recovery period, and natural movement is more likely.

Knee Joint

Preparing for surgery

Knee replacement requires major surgery, so preoperative preparation, medical consultation and physical examination usually begins one month prior to the set surgery date.

Preparation and diagnostic tests will include checking blood counts, looking at how the clots clot, performing an electrocardiogram (ECG) and urine tests.

Surgery is usually performed under general, spinal or epidural anesthesia. During this procedure, the plastic surgeon will remove damaged cartilage and bone and then place a new implant made of metal, plastic or both to restore alignment and function to the knee.

Recovery

Patients who have knee replacement surgery will be hospitalized for one to three days, depending on what they know about recovery and how they respond to it.

There will be pain, but the day after surgery, the medical staff will encourage the patient to get up and try to walk, usually with some kind of walker. It is important to follow the instructions regarding rehabilitation.

Physical therapy sessions are designed to strengthen the knee. These may be painful, but can greatly reduce the risk of future complications. Patients who do not have help at home may need to stay in the hospital for longer periods of time.

Recovering at home

According to the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons (AAHKS), full recovery from knee replacement surgery can take up to three months. Patients can usually drive again after 4 to 6 weeks and return to work after 6 to 8 weeks. Physical therapy may be provided for 3 months.  Patients must follow the instructions of their physician, nurse and physical therapist.

Useful measures include

Ensuring there are safe grab bars and using a stable, non-slip bench or chair in the shower

Sleeping downstairs whenever possible

Secure any loose carpets and remove wrinkle pads around the house

Eliminate or secure any tripping hazards, such as loose wires

Most people can return to normal activities 6 weeks after surgery, but may experience pain and swelling for up to 3 months and scar tissue and muscles will remain healthy for the next 2 years.

Items that may help at home include:

A raised toilet seat

A reaching stick for picking up items from the floor

A long-handled shoe horn

Patients who have undergone knee replacement surgery can expect to participate in moderate and low-impact exercise activities, such as walking, swimming, and biking, but they should avoid extreme sports.