Knee Replacement
Also called Total Knee Arthroplasty, this is a procedure to replace the worn or damaged surfaces of the knee joint with smooth artificial parts. It is usually recommended when arthritis or injury causes ongoing pain and stiffness that no longer responds to other treatments.
Anatomy
The knee joint is formed by three bones — the femur (thigh bone), tibia (shin bone), and patella (kneecap). These bones normally glide smoothly over each other thanks to a layer of cartilage. When the cartilage wears out due to arthritis or trauma, the bones rub together, leading to pain, swelling, and reduced movement.
Knee Replacement Surgery
When to Consider Surgery
Knee replacement may be advised if you have:
- Severe knee pain or stiffness that limits daily activities
- Pain at rest or at night
- Significant deformity (bowed or knock-kneed appearance)
- Little or no relief from medication, injections, or physiotherapy.
Types of Knee Replacement
- Total Knee Replacement: replaces all the joint surfaces (most common).
- Partial (Unicompartmental) Knee Replacement: replaces only the damaged part of the knee, preserving healthy tissue and ligaments.
- Patellofemoral Replacement: replaces the joint between the kneecap and thigh bone if that area alone is affected.
The Procedure
During surgery, the damaged cartilage and a small amount of bone are removed from the end of the femur and tibia. These surfaces are then replaced with metal and plastic components designed to mimic the natural shape and movement of the knee. The surgery usually takes 1–2 hours and is performed under general or spinal anaesthetic.
Recovery
Most patients begin walking with assistance on the day of surgery.
- Hospital stay is usually 1–3 days.
- Physiotherapy begins early to restore motion, strength, and confidence.
- The first 2 days are critical to get early motion and maintain ROM while the healing and scaring are forming, once the pain resolves the motion will be set.
- Most people can resume daily activities after 2 weeks and by 2 months back to normal activities, although full recovery can take up to 24 months.
You’ll continue physiotherapy and home exercises to help achieve the best result.
Expected Outcomes
Knee replacement is one of the most successful orthopaedic procedures, providing:
- Significant pain relief
- Improved mobility and quality of life
- Long-lasting results — modern implants can last 20 years or more.
Possible Complications
While the vast majority of patients do well, potential complications include:
- Infection or wound problems
- Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis)
- Stiffness or limited range of motion
- Ongoing pain or swelling
- Implant wear or loosening over time
Your surgical team will take steps to minimise these risks and guide you through recovery safely.
When to Seek Help
Contact your doctor or hospital urgently if you experience:
- Increasing redness, swelling, or discharge from the wound
- Fever or chills
- Sudden calf pain or shortness of breath
- Inability to move or bear weight on the leg.
