Total Knee Replacement

At A Life Health Group, we aim to provide the highest quality healthcare to patients of all ages. Total knee replacement surgery is performed to relieve pain, swelling, and limited mobility caused by cartilage wear, inflammation, or damage in the knee joint. The procedure involves replacing the damaged knee joint with an artificial implant. This approach offers an effective solution to reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall quality of life.

Total knee replacement surgery involves replacing the entire surface of the knee joint with an artificial implant. The artificial joint is made of metal, ceramic, or specialized medical-grade plastics, designed to restore the natural movement and stability of the knee. The prosthesis supports both flexion and extension movements of the knee while reestablishing its load-bearing capacity.

Total knee replacement surgery may be recommended in the following situations:

• Severe Knee Pain: When intense pain caused by cartilage wear, inflammation, or joint damage does not improve with conservative treatments.
• Limited Mobility: When restricted movement and knee pain make it difficult to walk, climb stairs, or perform daily activities.
• Pain Unresponsive to Medication: When painkillers, physical therapy, and other non-surgical treatments fail to provide relief.
• Severe Joint Damage: When knee joint deterioration becomes so advanced that it significantly limits walking and mobility.

• Pain Reduction: Total knee replacement significantly reduces or completely eliminates pain in the knee joint.
• Improved Mobility: The artificial joint restores knee movement and flexibility, making walking, climbing stairs, and daily activities easier.
• Enhanced Quality of Life: Reduced pain and improved mobility after surgery lead to a better quality of life, allowing individuals to participate more actively in social and professional activities.
• Long-Lasting Solution: With proper care and regular follow-ups, total knee prostheses can last 15–20 years or even longer.

Knee prostheses can be applied in different types depending on the patient’s specific needs:

• Cemented Prostheses: The prosthesis is fixed to the bone using a special bone cement.
• Cementless Prostheses: The bone tissue naturally fuses with the prosthesis; suitable for younger and more active patients.
• Hybrid Prostheses: Some components are fixed with cement, while others are cementless.
• Minimally Invasive Prostheses: Performed through smaller incisions, this technique shortens recovery time.

Total knee replacement surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia. The procedure involves making an incision around the knee area. The surgeon removes the damaged joint surfaces and replaces them with an artificial joint. After the surgery, the knee is bandaged, and a short hospital stay of a few days is typically required for monitoring and initial recovery.

The recovery process varies from person to person:

• First Week: Swelling, mild pain, and limited movement in the knee are normal.
• Weeks 2–6: Physical therapy begins; walking and simple exercises are introduced to improve joint mobility.
• Weeks 6–12: Gradual return to daily activities such as climbing stairs and short walks.
• Months 3–6: The knee becomes stronger, and full movement and stability are restored.

• Take your prescribed medications regularly as directed by your doctor.
• Continue physical therapy: The postoperative rehabilitation program is tailored individually by your physiotherapist.
• Avoid heavy lifting: Refrain from activities that may strain your knee after surgery.
• Rest adequately: Ensure sufficient rest and avoid strenuous activities.

• Pain: It is normal to experience pain after surgery. You can manage it with the painkillers prescribed by your doctor.
• Swelling: Swelling around the knee is common after the procedure.
• Limited Mobility: Some temporary restriction in knee movement may occur postoperatively.
• Infection: There is a potential risk of infection following the surgery.
• Prosthesis Loosening: Over time, the prosthesis may loosen and require revision surgery.

• How long does total knee replacement surgery take?
  The surgery typically lasts 1–2 hours, and hospital stay is generally 3–5 days.

• What is the lifespan of the prosthesis?
  With proper care and regular check-ups, the prosthesis can last 15–20 years or longer.

• Can I walk after surgery?
  Walking begins with a walker or cane on the first days, and normal activities are usually regained within 6–8 weeks.

• Can I exercise?
  Physical therapy and a tailored exercise program help improve knee strength and flexibility.

• Will the prosthesis need replacement?
  If wear or loosening occurs over time, a revision surgery may be required; however, modern prostheses are long-lasting.