Knee replacement surgery, or knee arthroplasty, follows a systematic step-by-step process to replace a damaged knee joint with a prosthetic one. Below is an outline of the typical procedure:
1. Preoperative Preparation
Anesthesia: The patient is either given general anesthesia (where they are asleep) or spinal anesthesia (where only the lower body is numbed).
Positioning: The patient is positioned on the operating table, with the knee exposed. The surgeon will mark the surgical site, ensuring accuracy during the procedure.
Sterilization: The knee area is cleaned and sterilized to reduce the risk of infection.
2. Incision
A long incision (usually 6-10 inches) is made along the front of the knee, exposing the joint. In some cases, minimally invasive techniques with smaller incisions may be used, though this depends on the patient and surgeon's preference.
3. Removal of Damaged Tissue
The surgeon will remove the damaged cartilage and bone from the femur (thigh bone), tibia (shin bone), and, if necessary, the patella (kneecap).
Bone reshaping may be necessary to accommodate the prosthesis. The damaged surfaces are precisely trimmed using specialized tools.
4. Placement of the Prosthesis
A metal prosthesis (typically made of cobalt-chromium alloy) is placed on the femur and tibia. The surfaces are carefully aligned and fixed in place, sometimes using cement or, in some cases, relying on a “press-fit” design that allows bone to grow into the implant.
If the patella is also being replaced, it is reshaped, and a plastic prosthetic piece is affixed to its surface.
5. Testing Range of Motion
After implant placement, the surgeon checks the knee’s range of motion to ensure the prosthesis is properly aligned and functions as intended.
The surgeon may make slight adjustments to achieve the correct alignment and balance of the joint.
6. Closing the Incision
Once the prosthesis is properly positioned, the incision is closed using sutures or staples. In some cases, a drain may be placed to remove excess fluid that may accumulate around the joint.
7. Postoperative Care
After the surgery is completed, the patient is moved to a recovery room, where they are monitored as the anesthesia wears off.
Pain management protocols are initiated, including medication to control pain and prevent infection.
8. Recovery and Rehabilitation
Early Mobilization: Most patients are encouraged to start moving the knee and may begin physical therapy within the first 24 hours.
Physical therapy continues for several weeks to help regain strength, mobility, and function in the knee. Weight-bearing activities are gradually introduced as healing progresses.
Conclusion :
knee replacement surgery is a highly effective procedure for relieving severe knee pain and restoring function in patients with significant joint damage, most often due to conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. The surgery involves several precise steps, including the removal of damaged tissues, placement of a prosthetic joint, and careful testing of the knee's alignment and mobility. While the procedure itself typically takes 1-2 hours, recovery and rehabilitation are essential components of the overall process, allowing patients to regain strength, flexibility, and quality of life. With advancements in surgical techniques and prosthetic materials, knee replacement surgery continues to offer long-term benefits for those suffering from debilitating knee conditions, enabling them to return to daily activities with reduced pain and improved function.
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