Knee Replacement Surgery-Advantages and Risks
What is knee replacement surgery?
Knee replacement surgery, also called knee arthroplasty (ARTH-row-plas-tee) or total knee replacement, is a surgical procedure to resurface a knee damaged by arthritis. It helps to relieve pain and restore function in severely diseased knee joints. The process involves removing the damaged bone and cartilage from the thigh bone, shinbone and kneecap, and repositioning it with a prosthesis which is generally made of metal, high-grade plastics and polymers.
What are the advantages of knee replacement surgery?
Patient suffering with a bad knee should consider knee surgery as the best option for the following reasons:
1. Pain relief:
Knee surgery effectively alleviates pain. There won’t be any discomfort that was usually experienced while walking, running, standing and even sitting.
2. No sedentary lifestyle:
Knee pain generally affects the mobility of a person that results in weight gain and ill health. Opting for knee surgery is best for improved mobility.
3. Better treatment response:
Long term use of medication like pain relievers can have side effects on the body. Knee surgery reduces the patient’s need for medications physical therapy and other surgeries.
What are the risks of knee replacement surgery?
While knee replacement can be successful in addressing pain but there are no guarantees as to how long the implants will last, as variables such as weight and activity level can lead to wear and tear. Some risks associated with the surgery are:
- Stiffness
- Poor range of motion
- Swelling and joint pain
- Knee instability and/or dislocation
- Loosening or fracture of the knee implant components
- Bone fracture or break during surgery
- Leg length discrepancy
Knee replacement surgeries are always safe and successful. But the patients should consult an orthopaedic surgeon and weigh the benefits and risks carefully before deciding to undergo surgery.
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