Knee replacement surgery is typically recommended for individuals with severe knee pain and disability due to osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or other degenerative conditions that have not responded to other forms of treatment.
Knee replacement surgery, also known as knee arthroplasty, is a procedure in which a damaged or diseased knee joint is replaced with an artificial joint. It is typically recommended for individuals with severe knee pain and disability due to osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or other degenerative conditions that have not responded to other forms of treatment.
The surgery involves making an incision in the skin and removing the damaged bone and cartilage from the knee joint. The surface of the bone is then prepared to receive the artificial joint, made of metal and plastic components. The artificial joint is then secured in place with cement or a special type of bone cement substitute.
After the surgery, patients typically need to go through a period of rehabilitation to regain strength and mobility in their knee. This can include physical therapy and exercises to improve range of motion, flexibility and strength. Most people are able to return to their normal activities within a few months of surgery.