Our Summary

This research paper is about a type of surgery called total knee replacement, which is done to fix severely damaged knees. The operation replaces two different parts of the knee and helps patients to move properly and feel less pain. However, there can be problems after the surgery such as blood clots, infection, and issues with the artificial knee part not fitting correctly. The use of medical imaging, like X-rays or scans, is very important before the surgery to plan it properly, and after the surgery to check how well it worked.

FAQs

  1. What is the purpose of a total knee replacement?
  2. What are some potential postoperative complications of a total knee replacement?
  3. How does medical imaging contribute to the process of a total knee replacement?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about knee replacement is to follow a rehabilitation plan carefully and diligently. This may include physical therapy exercises, walking aids, and lifestyle modifications to ensure proper healing and optimal function of the new knee joint. It is important to communicate any concerns or complications with your healthcare provider to address them promptly and prevent any long-term issues.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for knee replacement surgery are those who have severe knee pain and stiffness that limits daily activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, and getting up from a chair. These patients may also have:

  • Osteoarthritis: The most common reason for knee replacement, osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that causes the cartilage in the knee joint to wear down, resulting in bone-on-bone contact and pain.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints, rheumatoid arthritis can lead to joint damage and deformity.
  • Post-traumatic arthritis: This type of arthritis develops after a knee injury, such as a fracture or ligament tear, which damages the joint surface.
  • Other conditions: Patients with avascular necrosis, in which the bone tissue dies due to poor blood supply, or those with severe deformities or malalignment of the knee joint may also be candidates for knee replacement.

It is important for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider to determine if knee replacement surgery is the best option for their condition. Physical therapy, medications, and other conservative treatments may be recommended before considering surgery.

Timeline

Before knee replacement surgery:

  • Patient experiences chronic knee pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility
  • Patient undergoes physical examination, imaging studies (X-rays, MRI), and blood tests to determine the extent of knee damage
  • Orthopedic surgeon recommends total knee replacement as the best treatment option
  • Patient undergoes preoperative preparations, including medical clearance, physical therapy, and education on the surgery and recovery process

After knee replacement surgery:

  • Patient is admitted to the hospital for the surgery, which typically takes 1-2 hours
  • Patient undergoes postoperative physical therapy to regain strength and mobility in the knee
  • Patient is discharged from the hospital within a few days and continues physical therapy at home or in a rehabilitation facility
  • Patient gradually resumes daily activities and eventually returns to work or normal routine
  • Patient undergoes regular follow-up appointments with the orthopedic surgeon to monitor the healing process and address any complications
  • Patient experiences improved knee function, reduced pain, and increased quality of life post-surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the risks and potential complications associated with knee replacement surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery process and what can I expect in terms of pain management?
  3. Will I need physical therapy after the surgery, and if so, how long will it last?
  4. What type of implant will be used in my knee replacement and why was this specific choice made?
  5. What are the expected outcomes of the surgery in terms of pain relief and improved function?
  6. How long can I expect the knee replacement to last before needing a revision surgery?
  7. Are there any lifestyle modifications or restrictions I should be aware of after the surgery?
  8. What are the signs of complications or infection that I should watch out for after the surgery?
  9. How often will follow-up appointments be needed and what will be monitored during these visits?
  10. Are there any alternative treatments or options to consider before proceeding with knee replacement surgery?

Reference

Authors: Scott AM. Journal: Radiol Technol. 2015 Sep-Oct;87(1):65-86. PMID: 26377268