Total knee replacement (TKR), also known as total knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure in which a damaged or diseased knee joint is replaced with artificial components called prostheses. It is usually prescribed for people who have severe knee pain, stiffness, or dysfunction that significantly affects their quality of life and does not respond to nonsurgical treatments such as medications, physical therapy, or injections.
Indications for Total Knee Replacement
- Osteoarthritis: The most common cause of TKR is due to wear and tear on the knee joint.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: Chronic inflammation leading to joint damage.
- Post-traumatic arthritis: Joint damage due to injury.
- Severe pain and limited mobility: Persistent pain that interferes with daily activities, such as walking or climbing stairs.
- Deformities: Bowing in or out of the leg due to joint damage.
Components of a Knee Replacement
- Femoral component: A piece of metal covering the end of the femur (femur).
- Tibial component: A piece of metal and plastic that covers the top of the shinbone (tibia).
- Patellar component: A plastic cap placed on the base of the knee cap (patella).
Procedure
- Anesthesia: May be general or regional (spinal or epidural).
- Incision and Removal: A surgical incision is made in the front of the knee. Damaged cartilage, bone and sometimes ligaments are removed.
- Implantation: Prostheses are secured to bone using bone cement or press-fit techniques.
- Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or staples, and a bandage is applied.
Risks and Complications
- Infection
- Blood clots (Deep Vein Thrombosis or Pulmonary Embolism)
- Nerve or blood vessel injury
- Prosthesis wear or failure
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion
Benefits
- Significant pain relief.
- Improved mobility and quality of life.
- Correction of joint deformities.
- Durable results; most knee replacements last 15-20 years or longer with proper care.
If you are considering TKR, consult an orthopedic surgeon for an individual evaluation and recommendations.