OVERVIEW
Total Knee Replacement (TKR) is a surgical procedure designed to relieve pain and restore function in severely diseased knee joints. It is often recommended for individuals suffering from chronic knee pain due to conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis. At Sukhveen Hospital, we are committed to providing advanced orthopedic care, ensuring our patients regain their mobility and quality of life.
What is Total Knee Replacement?
Total Knee Replacement involves the removal of damaged cartilage and bone from the knee joint, which is then replaced with a prosthetic implant. This procedure aims to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and enhance the overall quality of life for patients.
Conditions Leading to TKR
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Post-traumatic arthritis
- Knee deformities
Types of knee replacement
Your surgeon will recommend either a total or partial knee replacement:
- Total knee replacement: Total knee replacement is the most common type of knee replacement. Your surgeon will replace all three areas of your knee joint — the inside (medial), outside (lateral) and under your kneecap (patellofemoral).
- Partial knee replacement: A partial knee replacement is just what it sounds like. Your surgeon will only replace some areas of your knee joint — usually if only one or two areas are damaged. Partial knee replacements are more common in younger adults who’ve experienced an injury or trauma.
The TKR Procedure
Preoperative Assessment: Before the surgery, patients undergo a thorough evaluation, including:
- Medical history review
- Physical examination
- Imaging tests (X-rays, MRI) to assess the joint condition
- Blood tests to evaluate overall health
Surgical Procedure
The TKR surgery typically involves the following steps:
- Anesthesia: Patients receive either general anesthesia or spinal anesthesia.
- Incision: A surgical incision is made over the knee.
- Removal of Damaged Tissue: Damaged cartilage and bone are removed from the knee joint.
- Implantation: The artificial joint is positioned in the knee. Components may include:
- Metal components for the femur (thigh bone)
- Metal or plastic components for the tibia (shin bone)
- A plastic spacer to provide cushioning
- Closure: The incision is closed with stitches or staples.
Types of Implants
There are various types of knee implants, including:
- Cemented Implants: Secured with a special bone cement for immediate stability.
- Uncemented Implants: Designed to allow bone to grow into the implant over time.
- Partial Knee Replacement: Involves replacing only a part of the knee joint.
Benefits of TKR
- Significant pain relief
- Improved mobility and range of motion
- Enhanced quality of life
- Ability to return to normal activities, including sports and exercise
Risks and Considerations
As with any surgery, TKR carries potential risks, including:
- Infection
- Blood clots
- Nerve or blood vessel injury
- Implant failure or loosening
- Persistent pain or stiffness
Diagnosis
To diagnose whether you have cataract or not, your doctor will conduct a comprehensive eye examination which includes: