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Surgery may be the answer if your knee is compromised due to arthritis or injury, and other treatments to relieve pain have fallen short. The knee is the largest joint in the body, and having healthy knees is an important part of overall well-being. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, knee replacement surgery, also called knee arthroplasty, is one of the most successful of all medical procedures.
The four basic components of knee replacement surgery include:
- Preparation of the bone. Damaged cartilage at the tips of both the femur and tibia is removed. In addition, a small portion of the underlying bone is removed.
- Replacement with metal implants. A new joint surface is constructed using metal implants.
- Resurfacing of the patella. If necessary, a plastic button is attached to the underside of the patella, or kneecap.
- Smoothing the surface. A plastic spacer is inserted between the metal components to make for a smooth surface to aid in the movement of the knee.
Partial knee replacement, or unicompartmental knee replacement, is often a good option for people who have damage in just one part of the knee.
The overwhelming majority of knee replacement surgeries result in a great reduction in pain and a pronounced increase in ability to perform everyday activities. However, knee replacement patients are commonly advised to avoid high-impact sports such as running. Knee replacements typically last for many years, and because most patients are between 50 and 80 years of age, their knee replacements often last them a lifetime.
To learn more about knee replacement surgery, join us for Are You Considering a Total or Partial Knee Replacement?
The seminar will be hosted by Dr. John Pope (left), and is scheduled on March 29 from 6:00 pm until 7:00 pm at St. Petersburg General Hospital, Auditoriums A & B, 6500 38th Avenue North, St Petersburg, FL 33710.
Register online or call 1-888-741-5122.
Related Posts:
What to Expect After Knee Surgery
Caring for Creaking Joints
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