Total Knee Replacement

Total knee replacement is part of one of the great medical success stories of the second half of the twentieth century. It has matured from a less reliable procedure to a established, generally accepted medical intervention with predictable results.

Joint replacement produces some of the largest improvements in quality of life of all medical treatments. Hips were the first of the major joints to be replaced regularly and reliably, but knee replacement has improved to match the effectiveness and durability of artificial hips.

The components which make up the knee prosthesis are made up of a specialised stainless steel and a high density polyethylene. See the parts which make up an artificial knee joint here.

If you are planning on having a total knee replacement you can read a short description of the knee replacement operation here.

Unlike hip replacement, knee replacement demands a lot of the patient in terms of effort. You have to put up with more pain and swelling, do far more exercising for far longer and it takes at least three months for the knee to settle down. Find out what rehabilitation and exercises you need to do.

Towards the end of your hospital stay and afterwards read what should you expect on discharge.

A joint replacement is for life, not just for the short time you are with us. How you are monitored during the years ahead is vital and you can read here that kind of follow up you should expect.

Ideally, you should be able to forget about your new joint in daily life, but it is not like the original joint. You need to take some precautions for a sensible long life of coexistence with your joint. Read how to look after your new joint here.

There are always complications in life, and knee replacement is no exception I’m afraid. Read about the importance of age and potential complications here.