Knee replacement, also called knee arthroplasty or total knee replacement, is the surgical procedure to resurface a damaged knee. This surgery may be considered for someone who has severe arthritis or a severe knee injury. By using metal and plastic parts the ends of the bones forming the knee joint are capped along with the kneecap to relieve knee pain uncontrollable by other treatments.
Why Is Knee Replacement Done?
Knee replacement is performed for those suffering from end-stage knee arthritis. This can occur for reasons such as genetic or environmental factors, such as an old sports injury or the development of other medical conditions. A knee replacement surgery can help patients live a healthy and active lifestyle.
What happens during surgery?
Knee replacement usually takes 1 to 2 hours. During the surgery the damaged cartilage and bone are removed from the knee, then the metal implants are attached to the ends of the thigh and calf bones.
Types of Knee Replacement approaches
Your surgeon will offer the best approach suited to your needs. To ensure a smooth procedure, a skilled orthopedic surgeon will map out your knee anatomy in advance so that they may plan their surgical approach and anticipate special instruments or devices. Here we go over the possible procedures:
Traditional surgery (Total Knee Replacement)
In this approach, an 8-12-inch incision will be made along the front and toward the middle of the knee and standard surgical techniques will be used. This approach usually involves cutting into the quadriceps tendon to turn the kneecap over and expose the arthritic joint. Patients will be hospitalized 3-5 days after surgery and have a 12-week recovery time.
Minimally invasive surgery
Your surgeon may suggest a minimally invasive surgery (MIS) to reduce trauma to tissue, lessen pain, and decrease blood loss. A minimally invasive approach reduces the incision to 3 to 4 inches, offering a speedy recovery. The main difference between the approaches is that, unlike standard surgery, the kneecap is pushed to the side rather than being turned over. Because the surgeon cuts less muscle, healing occurs faster, and you are likely to experience a better range of motion after recovery. Types of minimally invasive approaches include:
Quadriceps-sparing approaches
Following the minimal incision, the kneecap is shifted to the side and the arthritic bone is cut away without cutting through the quadriceps tendon.
Lateral approach
This rarely used approach is more common for those whose knees tend to bend outwards. Entering the knee joint laterally, or from the side of the knee makes it easier for patients to return to walking. Following this minimally invasive surgery, patients will only stay in the hospital for 3-4 days and experience a 4-6-week recovery period. Minimally invasive approaches aren’t appropriate for everybody. Minimally invasive surgery is more difficult to perform and requires a more specific technique, instruments, and surgical training.
Computer-assisted surgery (CAS)
Increasingly, surgeons are also turning to computer-assisted methods for both TKRs and PKRs involving both traditional and minimally invasive procedures. During “registration”, the surgeon enters a patient’s anatomical data into a computer, and a 3D model of the knee is generated. The software provides the surgeon with a more precise, computer-aided image of the knee. A computer-based approach also allows a surgeon to operate with a smaller incision and benefits the patient by reducing recovery time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, knee replacement surgery is a highly successful orthopedic procedure that significantly improves the quality of life for patients suffering from severe knee pain and stiffness. There are several types of knee replacement surgeries, including total knee replacement, which is the traditional method and involves replacing the entire joint, and partial knee replacement, a less invasive option that only replaces the damaged compartment of the knee. Other types include minimally invasive spine surgery, which involves a smaller incision, and computer-assisted surgery, which allows for more precise alignment. The choice of procedure depends on the individual patient’s situation and needs, including the extent of knee damage, previous trauma, or prior surgery. Regardless of the type, knee replacement surgery aims to relieve pain, improve mobility, and enhance the patient’s overall quality of life.
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