Total knee replacement
Is chronic knee pain or instability keeping you from doing the things you want and making everyday activities difficult? Whether your knee issues are the result of an injury or the degenerative effects of arthritis, total knee replacement surgery may offer relief.
More than 750,000 Americans undergo total knee replacement surgery, also known as total knee arthroplasty, each year. When the cartilage in your knee no longer provides necessary cushion and support, total knee replacement surgery may be the most effective solution.
Total knee replacement requires implanting an artificial joint to replace damaged or diseased cartilage and bone from the thighbone, shinbone or kneecap.
Prosthetic knee implants are designed to mimic the movement and function of a healthy human knee. Prosthetics used in knee replacement surgery are made of long-lasting medical-grade metal, plastic or ceramic materials.
During total knee replacement surgery, your doctor will:
- Remove damaged or diseased cartilage and bone from the thighbone, shinbone and kneecap
- Insert prosthetic implants to resurface or cap the ends of the diseased bones and form the new knee joint
- Reposition the artificial knee joint into ensure proper alignment
After knee surgery
Today's surgical advances mean shorter post-surgical hospital stays. In most cases, you'll be able to go home within 24-48 hours of knee surgery.
Your recovery plan probably will also include comprehensive outpatient physical therapy. Therapy will help you regain strength, improve movement and restore function, helping you get back to doing the activities you love.
Throughout your treatment your HonorHealth orthopedic surgeon will work with your primary care physician to ensure that you receive the best possible care and treatment. Your surgeon also may collaborate with a physical therapist, anesthesiologist, hospitalist, orthopedic nurses and others in the hospital.