Total Knee Replacement Specialist

What is total knee replacement?

Total knee replacement is a type of orthopedic surgery that replaces a damaged or diseased knee joint with an artificial prosthetic. It’s a safe and effective procedure that can relieve pain, correct joint abnormalities, and help you return to work and other routine activities.

The first total knee replacement procedure occurred more than 50 years ago. Since then, surgical tools and prosthetics have improved significantly, ensuring satisfactory treatment outcomes.

Why might I need a total knee replacement?

The team at Martin Orthopedics uses total knee replacement to address various issues, including:

• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Post-traumatic arthritis
• Sports injuries
• Work injuries

You might also benefit from a total knee replacement if you’re involved in a car accident that crushes your knee cap.

What does a total knee replacement involve?

A total knee replacement typically takes 1-3 hours. Before conducting the procedure, your surgeon administers general anesthesia and puts you to sleep.

When you’re comfortable, your surgeon makes several small incisions over your knee cap and removes the damaged or diseased cartilage and surrounding bone. Next, your surgeon replaces the cartilage and bone with metal components. They cement these components together or “press fit” them into your healthy bone.

Lastly, your Martin Orthopedics provider inserts a plastic, medical-grade spacer between the metal prosthesis. The spacer creates a smooth surface, allowing for fluid, pain-free motion.

Who can benefit from a total knee replacement?

Most knee injuries or degenerative conditions respond well to conservative, at-home treatments like ice, rest, and physical therapy. You might benefit from a total knee replacement if:

• You experience severe knee pain that interferes with your daily routine
• Your pain occurs even when you’re resting
• You have a visible knee deformity
• Chronic inflammation doesn’t improve with rest or medication

Following an in-office exam and a discussion of your symptoms, the team at Martin Orthopedics can determine the type of treatment that most benefits you.

What is recovery like after a total knee replacement?

After a total knee replacement, follow your surgeon’s recovery instructions as closely as possible. Take all of your medication as prescribed, attend your physical therapy appointments, and avoid strenuous activity until you receive the green light.

Most people are able to return to driving and other normal activities within four to six weeks of their operation.

To see if you can benefit from a total knee replacement, make an appointment at Martin Orthopedics by calling the nearest office today or scheduling online.