What is a total knee replacement?
If you're suffering from chronic knee pain that doesn't seem to go away with medication or physical therapy, you may have come across the term “total knee replacement.” But what exactly does it mean?
Aditya Pandey
If you're suffering from chronic knee pain that doesn't seem to go away with medication or physical therapy, you may have come across the term “total knee replacement.” But what exactly does it mean? Is it safe? Who needs it, and what can you expect if you undergo the procedure?
This article is a comprehensive and easy-to-understand guide that explains everything you need to know about total knee replacement surgery, from what it is, who needs it, how it’s performed, to what recovery looks like.
What is a Total Knee Replacement?
A total knee replacement, also called knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that replaces a damaged or diseased knee joint with an artificial joint made of metal and plastic. The goal is to relieve pain, improve mobility, and restore function in the knee.
The surgery involves removing the damaged cartilage and bone from the surface of the knee joint and replacing it with prosthetic components that mimic the natural movement of the knee.
Why Do People Need a Total Knee Replacement?
The most common reason for a total knee replacement is osteoarthritis—a condition where the cartilage that cushions the knee joint wears away, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Other conditions that may require knee replacement include:
Rheumatoid arthritis – an autoimmune condition that causes joint inflammation.
Post-traumatic arthritis – occurs after a knee injury or fracture.
Deformities – such as bow-legged or knock-kneed conditions.